February 2006, Vol. XXIV, No. 2 www.filipinostar.org Harper starts with controversial choices Stephen Harper, sworn in as month government built on the Canada's 22nd Prime Minister, last country's robust economy but was Monday, February 6, 2006, made deeply marred by an ethics scandal some surprising choices to his that outraged many Canadians. Cabinet, naming David Eemrson, a "As a government, our mission fomer member of Paul Martin’s is clear," Harper said shortly after cabinet to the post of International the swearing in ceremony. "We will Trade Minister and appointing a act on the collective priorities of non-elected member to head the Canadians so that our country Public Works Department, Michael remains strong, independent and Fortier who will be responsible for a free." large amount of taxpayers’ money. Harper's personal politics are Some political analysts considered said to be in line with those of many these decisions bold moves as they Republicans in the neighbouring US are likely to stir controversies right -- he's anti-abortion and against gay at the beginning of his term which marriage and big government -- and will be the first time in more than a many believe rocky relations will decade that the Conservative Party now improve with the White House. will rule in this traditionally liberal But to govern effectively and remain nation. in power, he'll have to balance his The 46-year-old economist has own beliefs with the many vowed to cut taxes, get tough on Canadians who disdain US crime and reconsider such hot- President George Bush and the war button issues as gay marriage. He in Iraq. He also has to show takes over outgoing Liberal Party leader Paul Martin, whose 18- See Page 4 Harper Homecoming parade for victorious Manny Paquiao

Stephen Harper takes the oath of office as Canada's 22nd prime minister during a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, February 6, 2006. Mud slides bury a village in Leyte, Philippines

Filipino Boxing hero Manny 'The Pacman' Pacquiao rides a float at a big homecoming parade as he is welcomed by the city of Manila, Philippines upon his return after winning the World Featherweight (Courtesy of: Joey de Leon, Manila, Philippines photographer) MANILA, Philippines (AP) - featherweight title eliminator at Las Thousands of Filipinos lined the Vegas on Saturday to avenge his streets of Manila on Friday, January defeat to the same fighter 10 27 to cheer local boxing hero Manny months ago. "Pac Man" Pacquiao on his On Friday Pacquiao waved to MANILA, Philippines - February Philippines. Officials feared the triumphant return after defeating fans from a truck decked with 17, 2006 - The farming village is death toll could climb past 1,500. Mexican rival Erik Morales. Philippine flags and sporting two gone, swallowed whole by a wall of "There are no signs of life, no Pacquiao, (41-3-1, 32 large red boxing gloves as his mud and boulders that swept down knockouts) stopped Morales with a with terrifying speed Friday from a See Page 6 Mud slides flurry of punches in the 10th round See Page 15 Pacquiao mountainside in the eastern of their 12-round WBC super Page 2 The North American Filipino Star February 2006 aid to the victims. The United States immediately responded by Filipino Solidarity Cooperative sets EDITORIAL sending the Marines to dig up and rescue the survivors. Canada, expansion plans What’s behind those although a little slower to react, is Last January 22, 2006, the Board of merchandise being offered for sale. It is now responding with considerable mud slides? Directors and Committees of the now possible for consumers to make a Mud slides have been occurring financial aid. Filipino Canadians Filipino Solidarity Cooperative held a “one stop shopping” for most of the almost regularly every year in the across the country are also actively meeting at Gilmore College to discuss things they need everyday. Philippines. They have caused so raising funds to send to the expansion plans and to review financial A free seminar will be held on Philippines. Although all these results over the period of seven months. Sunday, March 19, 2006, from 2 to 4 much hardships, devastation and p.m. at Gilmore College, 4950 Queen loss of lives, particularly among the initiatives by both government and The directors of the cooperative are: private citizens are admirable, they Jose Gaviola, president; Ben Bade, vice- Mary Road Penthouse, to provide the poor people who are living in areas public all the information they need are not going to solve the problem of president; Rhoda Tremocha, secretary- where illegal logging is rampant. treasurer, Magnolia Camat and Adelia regarding the cooperative movement, Everyone is aware of the problem deadly mud slides that can bury the limited liabilities of having stocks or whole towns and villages unless Gayol, administrators. The two but there seems to be nothing done committees and their members are as shares in a cooperative, and the rights about it. Although there are something is done to get to the root follows: and responsibilities of stockholders. government people who are of the problem. The funds are Education and Training Mr. Jose Gaviola, president, will mandated to oversee that the law is certainly needed to give to the Development - Lourdes Fagsao, discuss the management aspect, Mr. survivors who will need housing, Domingo Lorica, Jr., Josephine Villa, Eugene Salinas will explain the being followed, they are apparently financial aspect, and Mr. Lei Mark will being bribed into cooperating with food, and the means to earn a and Joecel Trinidad. Membership and livelihood. But money alone is not Promotion - Lourdes Rosales, Maria present the cooperative system and the powerful loggers. moderate the seminar. sufficient to help them for a longer Ruth Dima-ala and Zenaida Ferry It is often believed that it is Kharroubi. If you are interested in listening to impossible to solve the problem of period of time. A more permanent the speakers and understand how the solution will be to make people The Cooperative has now added illegal logging because of rampant equipment which can store meat, fish cooperative works before signing up for corruption in the government at all aware that they have the power to and other frozen products. There are membership, please call 514-485=7861 levels - municipal, provincial, and change their life if they learn to now many more varieties of to reserve your space. national. . There is a culture of work with each other in the "survival of the fittest" and "just protection of their own FREE SEMINAR mind your own business" if you environment. “The Cooperative System in Quebec” want to live longer.. Not only do The question then is: How do we Date: Sunday, March 19, 2006 they cut trees down without begin to empower people to go Time: 2:00-4:00 P.M. replacing them, they also beyond their own personal Place: Gilmore College apparently dig up earth wherever interests? Who will lead them out of 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse (near Snowdon Metro) they can to sell to contractors and their helplessness? From a Telephone: 514-485-7861 for reservation developers who are building distance, it is hard to imagine if subdivisions for those who can there is anyone in the community afford to buy. With these activities who can be so concerned about the Divisoria cubao going on without fear of being future that he or she will mobilize caught because they are being others to change things that are Filipino Solidarity Cooperative within their power to change. On protected by those who are in 4711 Van Horne Avenue, Montreal, QC H3W 18 power, it is no wonder that there the other hand, those of us who are will be landslides that will occur away from our native land, we may Tel. 514-733-8915 regularly in vulnerable places where need to reflect more deeply on whether or not we are also willing to More choices, the poor are the most numerous. • Barong Tagalog go out of our way to do something in competitive prices! • Frozen/Refrigerated These types of calamities do not • Phone Cards preventing mud slides from ever products happen where there are rich people • Health, Beauty and happening again. Although we • Dry Goods because they usually live in places Home Care cannot control floods and strong • Fruits & Vegetables that are absolutely safe and always Products rains, we can always fortify the soil • Canned Goods, Oil, in pristine condition. • Ladies, Childlren’s by planting more trees, and finding Vinegar, Spices Bearing in mind the Wear other ways to save the earth. After • Juice, Soft Drinks, helplessness of the poor and the • Souvenirs all, we are all living in the same Snacks ruthless power of rich loggers, what • Miscellaneous new planet. and we are not only helping • Rice, Cereals, is the next step? Shall we stand by Noodles items added daily and let this cycle of tragedies others but we are also helping happen to the poor people living ourselves. near the denuded mountains? What else need to happen before Tangkilikin ang sariling atin para umunlad we all wake up to do something Shall we just depend on Help yourself by supporting your own cooperative. governments to act? Shall we let about changing things that we have more tragedies to strike before the power to change? taking any action? What can ordinary people do? mxÇt|wt YxÜÜç ^{tÜÜÉâu| It seems that the first reaction to tragedies of this nature is to send

4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse (5th Floor) Tel.: 514-485-7861 Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Fax: 514-485-3076 The N.A. Filipino Star E-Mail:[email protected] Website: www.filipinostar.org SUBSCRIPTION Name:______Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Chief Editor & Executive Publisher Address:______Lourdes Fabia Michael Davantes Dr. Victor Gavino Entertainment News Editor Telephone: Residence:______Office: Esther Stansfield Contributing Editor ______Lina V. Frnandez Riza Esmeralda Enclose a cheque or money order for: Columnists Bert Abiera Nida Verginom Butaran Founder Mary Joy Lizarondo Sales Representatives

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Movement is Life and behavioural problems such as violence and increased illnesses such as ear, nose, and throat Chiropractic Delivers infections, sleeping difficulties, and colic. This may sound a bit strange at first but if you It should be obvious why it is so important to think about it for a moment the truth of this ensure every child has a properly moving and statement begins to become more and more aligned spine as the spinal joints are the main apparent. Without movement you could not source of sensory movement stimulation to the sustain life: blood cells that don't move cannot brain. If there is subluxation in the spine, transport oxygen, lungs that don't move can't movement and therefore essential nutrient breath, hearts that don't move can't pump blood, delivery to the brain are compromised. and spines that don't move can't create the motion Not only does proper spinal movement required for proper joint nutrition, for the increase overall health, decrease disease and activities of daily living, or for the stimulation of improve the ability to create feelings of happiness the joint-brain pathways required for proper brain and well-being, it also helps to reduce pain and and body function. discomfort and to diminish feelings of anxiety and You heard correctly, movement (especially of stress. When it comes right down to it we are the spine) is required for proper brain function for creatures designed for virtually constant the coordination of activities such as movement living in a society that involves almost concentration and learning, emotions, motor constant sitting. We are also clearly designed to control, and organ function (including immune have properly moving and aligned spines and organs).Roger Sperry the recipient of the Nobel many of our citizens are unknowingly walking prize in 1982 for his work in brain research stated around with subluxation in their spines because that the importance of movement of the spine in they have NEVER HAD A SPINAL HEALTH EXAM!! relation to brain function could be equated to that This is not a healthy combination and the result is of a windmill that generates electricity for a power that we have a population that is much less plant. He also stated that the more structurally healthy and much more sick, tired, and disease distorted we are, the less energy we have for ridden than is necessary. metabolism, for healing, and for thinking. Don’t let this happen to you. If you suffer from In fact research has shown that if you cut off allergies, migraines, back or neck pain, fatigue, the supply of information going to the brain, the joint pain or any other type of pain, please call us brain will actually reach a state of coma!! That's now. We are offering you a special price for your Valid until October. 29, 2005 right, the brain does not simply control the body, initial consultation; normally $210.00 will be the brain requires constant stimulation; it offered to you at $45.00. ACT NOW this offer is requires constant input from movement to keep only valid for a very limited time. the batteries charged. Did you know that over half of all the nerve We are the DECARIE SQUARE FAMILY impulses being sent between your brain and body CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC in Decarie Square (near in your spinal cord are for the delivery of the Winners and Walmart on Decarie). Call us movement stimulation to the brain? Movement now at: 514-344-6118. charges your brain's battery and makes you able to think better, feel better, and function better. This is especially true for children because the If you find it in your heart to care effects of decreased stimulation of the brain in for somebody else, you will have childhood have been linked to central motor succeeded. impairment, developmental impairments, learning disabilities, concentration problems like ADHD, Maya Angelou

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From Page 1 Harper • Finance - Jim Flaherty - A former "Michael Fortier is leaving a economic diversification Ontario finance minister, Flaherty lucrative, private sector job to take Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar, Sask. justification for appointing someone is a lawyer by trade. this (position) ... but it is only a • Chuck Strahl, agriculture and like Fortier who is not a member of • Health - Tony Clement. Served as temporary appointment. He has agri-food minister and minister for Parliament, a move which seems to health minister under former Ontrio agreed that he will step down at the the Canadian Wheat Board contradict his pledge to reform the premiers Mike Harris and Ernie next federal election . . . and so this Chilliwack-Fraser Canyon, B.C. Senate by appointing only elected Eves. Senate seat will be available for • Greg Thompson, minister of Senators as one of his first steps in • Indusry - Maxime Bernier. A star elections, and we'll be proceeding veterans affairs - New Brunswick the new Parliament MP from Quebec, Bernier is a with Senate elections in the not-too- Southwest, N.B. Clutching his personal Bible, lawyer and prominent distant future." • Josée Verner, minister of international co-operation and minister for la Francophonie and official languages. A total of six women are now members of the new cabinet. Stephen Harper announced after the cabinet meeting that Parliament will reconvene on April 3 and a new budget will be introduced. Political analysts’ and Michael Fortier opponents’ reactions The following list completes the Academics and political Cabinet: observers alike made some • Gordon O'Connor - Defence comments that appear to shed light • Tony Clement - Health on Stephen Harper's decision to • Stockwell Day -- Public Safety take bold steps, his willingness to Harper was sworn in by Alex businessman. • Michael Fortier - Public Works take rough hits from all sides. Himelfarb, clerk of the Privy • Justic - Vic Toews. The Manitoba • David Emerson - International Political experts said that "the Council, and was presided over by MP has been the province’s justic Trade and Minister for the Pacific cabinet - 27 members, including the Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean as he took and labour minister. Gateway and the Vancouver- prime minister - marks another the oath of office. • Human Resources and Social Whistler Olympics. deliberate step toward the "We know that governing in a Development - Diane Finley. The • Rona Ambrose - Environment pragmatic middle and away from minority is not going to be easy," Ontario MP was first elected as MP • Jim Prentice - Indian Affairs the new Conservative party's Harper said in a news conference in 2004. ideological roots." Allan Tupper, a following the ceremony at Rideau • Labour - Jean-Pierre Blackburn. political scientist at the University Hall. "But we have our legislative The Quebec MP is a businessman, of British Columbia said:"This and governmental priorities and we college instructor and public seems to be a clear nod toward will work with others to find shared relations consultant. quite a pragmatic, centrist style of goals and common ideas.” • Transport - Lawrence Cannon. government Faron Ellis, a career Just how much cooperation he Quebec MP is a former Liberal Reform-Alliance-Conservative party will receive for his minority cabinet minister and has served as chronicler who teaches at government remains to be seen. Harper’s deputy chief of staff. Lethbridge Community College However, most people believe that remarked: "This is the final no one wants to have another transition away from Reform." With election so soon and may let the just three Alberta ministers - and as Harper government last a little Maxime Bernier many from Ontario (nine) as all four while longer, giving time to the • John Baird - Treasury Board western provinces combined - opposition parties, particularly the • Gary Lunn - Natural Resources Harper has rejected playing up the Liberals to re-group and rejuvenate • Monte Solberg - Citizenship and old West Wants In slogan. But on themselves. Immigration - Medicine Hat, Alta. balance, Harper's first cabinet Stephen Harper has kept his • Michael Chong, president of the seems a fiscally conservative, Queen's Privy Council, minister of socially moderate model of regional Harper’s Cabinet - intergovernmental affairs and balance, provincial experience and dominated by the West David Emerson minister for sport - Wellington- young and old. Harper said in his Halton Hills, Ont. first news release as prime minister Cabinet choices one of his closely There were two surprises in • Rob Nicholson - Democratic that the executive is "designed for guarded secrets. He gave a list of Harper’s cabinent: former Liberal reform (a new post) and Speaker of work, not for show." According to his appointments to the Governor cabinet minsiter David Emerson as the House. Ellis, "This cabinet is about the next General, Michaelle Jean, on the day international trade minister, and • Loyola Hearn, minister of fisheries election as much as it's about the of the oath-taking ceremony. Michael Fortier, Harper’s national and oceans - St. John's South- current minority Parliament." In There are 27 members of the campaign co-chair, who is not Mount Pearl, N.L. fact, with western Liberal MPs Cabinet, including Harper himself, elected, but will serve as minister of having held the finance, health, down from the previous public works and government industry and deputy prime minister government’s 37. Nine MPs are services. jobs under the former Paul Martin from Ontario, 10 from the West, Emerson’s defection from the government, David Taras of the including four from Alberta, one Liberals was made public on University of Calgary argues that from Manitoba and three from the Monday, boosting the Conservative real cabinet influence has actually Atlantic provinces, and four from party’s seat to 125. shifted east. Giving the economic Quebec. Prince Edward Island was Harper has no MPs in any of the posts to Quebec MPs underscore shut out from the Cabinet, having Canada's three biggest cities, and the significance of this province in elected no Tory MPs. Prominent he told reporters he appointed the coming elections where 60% of cabinet postings include: Fortier -- a key business figure, the voters did not go for the • Foreign Affairs - Peter MacKay. party organizer in Quebec and a Laurence Cannon Conservatives. The former deputy Opposition former president of the Progressive New Democrat leader Jack leader and Nova Scotia MP has also Conservative party -- because he • Marjory LeBreton: Leader of the Layton said Harper's controversial serves as House leader and Justic needs a minister from Montreal in government in the Senate decision to appoint a cabinet critic. his cabinet. Senator/unelected minister who was elected as a • Heritage - Bev Oda. The Ontario But Harper said Fortier will run • Rob Nicholson, House leader and Liberal flies in the face of his MP served as Harper’s critic for in the next federal election, and that minister for democratic reform election pledge to clean up heritage. She is Canada’s first he will step down from his Senate Niagara Falls, Ont. government. parliamentarian of Japanese seat once he is elected to • Carol Skelton, minister of national heritage. Parliament. revenue and minister of western February 2006 The North American Filipino Star Page 5 Filipinos have the right to know," said In a talk with reporters on the side Lieutenants Lawrence San Juan, Aquino renews call senator Benigno Aquino, was swept to of a hearing on their coup d'etat case in Patricio Bumidang Jr., and Sonny for Arroyo to quit power after a civilian-backed military Makati City Tuesday morning, one of Sarmiento. mutiny ended the dictator's two-decade the rebel soldiers, Air Force First During a break from the trial, Corazon Aquino, a former rule. She was president for six years Lieutenant Francisco Ashley Acedillo several women came up to the accused until 1992. said the time had come for the public to Philippine president and icon of a and gave them red roses. She survived nearly a dozen army choose between supporting either "people power" uprising that Tuesday's hearing was Faeldon's coup plots and attempts by two groups President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo restored democracy in the first public appearance since his escape of soldiers -- one loyal to the ousted or pushing for a change in government. Southeast Asian nation in 1986, on last December 14. dictator and another that initially One of the alleged ringleaders of the Three other alleged leaders of the Tuesday renewed her call for Gloria helped install her as president. uprising who was recaptured last July 27, 2003 uprising, Trillanes, Navy Macapagal Arroyo to quit as leader. Five years ago, Aquino reprised her role January 27, Marine Captain Nicanor Lieutenant James Layug, and Marine Last July, Aquino turned her in a second "people power" uprising that Faeldon, was surrounded by military Captain Gary Alejano, did not appear in back on President Arroyo over removed Joseph Estrada from office and police and intelligence agents but was court after filing a waiver on their allegations of vote-rigging and pushed up Arroyo from vice president. able to mouth the words "Tuloy ang appearance for Tuesday's proceedings. Aquino also helped Arroyo win the 2004 laban [The fight continues]" while corruption after recordings of what Trillanes, Layug, Alejano, and presidential elections. lashing an "L" sign with his hands. the opposition said was Arroyo's Faeldon are detained at the Intelligence On Sunday, Aquino attended a "I am repeating the call of Navy conversations with an election Service of the Armed Forces of the Lieutenant Antonio Trillanes IV for the Philippines (ISAFP) in Camp Aguinaldo. people to choose -- remain in this The military deployed some 300 corrupt regime run by corruption and troops from the National Capital Region deception, or stand up forchange and Command (NCRCom) to secure the the truth," Acedillo said. court premises and thwart an alleged "We are reiterating our appeal. Now plan to spring the rebel soldiers from is the right time," Acedillo said. detention. Acedillo said they were leaving it up The mutineers and their security to the people how to achieve change. arrived in court at around 8:30 a.m. on He said efforts to unseat Arroyo had board twelve military trucks and a bus. become more "timely" ahead of the 20th Each rebel officer was handcuffed to his anniversary of the 1986 People Power guard. The handcuffs were removed uprising that toppled the Marcos only when they were seated in the dictatorship. courtroom. "We believe that support [from the Crowd dispersal units patrolled the public] is there. They are just waiting for perimeter of the court to guard against the right time," he said, when asked to protest rallies. comment on the military's claim that Arroyo remains hounded by they did not have the backing of the allegations that she cheated in the 2004 people. election. Attempts to oust her through Acedillo said they supported the call impeachment and street protests last of four of their comrades, who escaped year failed. last January 17, for the public to wear arm bands and join street protests to There is no greatness press for Arroyo's resignation. "They have our support... We trust where there is no that they will do the right thing at the simplicity, goodness and Former Presidents Corazon Aquino and Joseph Estrada met behind closed doors right time," Acedillo said of Army truth. Leo Tolstoy on Sunday, February 5 at the San Juan Medical Center after attending a Captain Nathaniel Rabonza and First thanksgiving Mass for the recovery of Estrada who underwent eye surgery on Wednesday. Senate President Franklin Drilon (middle) poses) with them. official during 2004 national polls. mass with Arroyo's political foes, Former Philippine President Corazon including Estrada and the widow of the Aquino answers media queries during action hero Fernando Poe Jr. Poe, who an interview in Manila's Makati died in December 2004, nearly defeated financial district February 7, 2006. "We Arroyo in the presidential elections Filipinos have the right to know," said earlier that year. When asked whether she was Aquino. "So many questions left considering an alliance with Estrada, unanswered." Aquino said: "I'm not ruling out Aquino, wearing her trademark anything. Everything is so fluid these yellow dress, said she was open to an days." Under new owners: alliance with Arroyo's political foes but 4715 Van Horne Aquino said she continued to would not take part in any means Jocelyn Galaura believe in "people power", calling on (near Plamondon Metro) outside the constitution to oust the Antoun Al-Haddad Filipinos to work together to help president. Tel.: 514-344-9999 underprivileged people improve their "I would still prefer that we do it lives. Marly’s Family Special through the constitutional process, that For the 20th anniversary of the first there will be resignation and eventually popular uprising later this month, special elections," Aquino, 73, told a Aquino said she would hold her own news conference on the anniversary of a celebration by launching projects to snap presidential election 20 years ago. build houses for the poor and giving Aquino claimed to have won the snap speeches to remind Filipinos about polls, accusing dictator Ferdinand "people power". Marcos of stealing the election -- the " It's a little awkward walking or trigger for the popular uprising in marching with people you are not in $27.99 February 1986. complete agreement with," Aquino said. Aquino, the widow of Marcos's "I will always be true to our democracy, assassinated political rival, former true to our people." Corazon Aquino, a former Philippine president and icon of a "people power" Faeldon, mutiny uprising that restored democracy in the Southeast Asian nation in 1986, on leaders appear in LOOKING FOR SOMEONE Tuesday renewed her call for Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to quit as leader. court amid tight Last July, Aquino turned her back Gentleman, honest, affectionate, kind, looking for a on President Arroyo over allegations of security girlfriend between ages 40 to 50 years old who is loyal vote-rigging and corruption after Manila, February 14, 2006 and sincere, non-smoker, health-conscious, slim single recordings of what the opposition said (UPDATE) THEY were handcuffed and was Arroyo's conversations with an under heavy guard, but the alleged or without young children, for a serious relationship. election official during 2004 national leaders of a failed military mutiny in Promises to keep replies confidential polls. Former Philippine President 2003 remained defiant, calling on the Corazon Aquino answers media queries public to "stand up for change and the Write to P.O. Box 75, Cote-St-Luc Station, during an interview in Manila's Makati truth." Montreal, QC H4V 1H8. financial district February 7, 2006. "We Page 6 The North American Filipino Star February 2006

downpours that dumped 27 inches More than 5,000 people were From Page 1 Mud slides Stampede at Manila of rain on the area. The constant killed in a combined flood and rooftops, no nothing," Southern showers were blamed on the La mudslide on Leyte in November stadium kills at least Leyte province Gov. Rosette Lerias Nina weather phenomenon. 1991. 88 people, injures 280 said. The village of Guinsaugon, The governor asked for people Saturday, February 04, 2006 once a community of 2,500 people, to dig by hand, saying the mud was MANILA, Philippines (AP) - A stampede now looks like a 100-acre patch of too soft for heavy equipment. broke out early Saturday outside a newly plowed land. Lerias said in “I have a glimmer of hope, based stadium near Manila where thousands radio and television interviews that on the rule of thumb — within 24 had lined up to watch a popular game many of the people in the affected hours you can still find survivors,” show, killing at least 88 people and area had been evacuated due to the Lerias said. “After that, you move on injuring 280 others, officials said. About 30,000 people were waiting to to the recovery phase, but right now get inside the stadium for the program it’s still rescue mode.” "Wowowee" when the mayhem erupted, A second, minor landslide said Vicente Eusebio, the mayor of added to volunteers’ jitters, and a Pasig, the Manila suburb where the helicopter pilot said the ground stampede occurred. near the top of the mountain was Philippine Red Cross chairman Sen. still moving in late afternoon. Richard Gordon said at least 88 people “You could see a patch of green, were confirmed dead and 280 others then mud where it was,” Leo were hospitalized. The mayor said the melee erupted Dimaala said, estimating that half as the crowd pushed and surged toward the mountain had collapsed. the gates, thinking they were open, Education officials said 250 pinning and trampling those in front. pupils and teachers were believed to ongoing bad weather but had have been at the elementary school. returned to their homes Friday after Only one girl and a woman were signs that the sun was coming out. rescued alive nearby. Rescue workers held little hope Aerial TV footage showed a wide Saturday of finding survivors from a swath of mud alongside stretches of devastating landslide. Lt. Col. Raul green rice paddies at the foothills of Farnacio, the highest-ranking the scarred mountain. military officer at the scene of Illegal logging a factor? Friday’s disaster, estimated the Survivors and others blamed death toll at about 1,800 — nearly illegal logging for contributing to the every man, woman and child who disaster. Wanted: lived in Guinsaugon. Pat Vendetti, a London-based Adult Volunteers to devote two “Out of a population of 1,857, campaigner with the Greenpeace hours of their time weekly in we have 57 survivors and 19 environmental action group, agreed the Scouting movement to bodies,” a grim Farnacio said as that illegal logging may prove to develop youth leadership. search efforts resumed Saturday in have contributed to the mudslide. Please call: Laging Handa Filipino protesters hold candles as they pray for stampede victims in Manila February 6, 2006. a drenching rain and high winds “There were similar landslides Scout Group at 485-7861 that made the task even more at the end of 2004 and the end of miserable. “We presume that more 2003, both directly linked to illegal or less that 1,800 are feared dead.” logging on land above villages, and “So many died. Our village is both in the Philippines,” said gone, everything was buried in Vendetti. mud. All the people are gone,” A local official said he believed survivor Eugene Pilo told GMA as many as 2,000 people may have television Friday, hours after the been buried.Like much of the landslide engulfed the village on eastern Visayas island group, Leyte Leyte island, 420 miles southeast of has experienced heavy rains for Manila. about 10 days. More than 20 people Pilo, who fears he lost his wife were killed in landslides earlier this and children, was at his brother’s week on the island. house when they felt the ground Relief groups have called for shake just before 10 a.m. drinking water, food, blankets and “Then the landslides struck,” he body bags to be brought to the recalled. “I ran out in the street, but scene. Philippine Navy and Coast I fell to the ground, along with my Guard ships are rushing to the area brother. There were big boulders — and the United States says it is bigger than a house — and logs sending one of its Navy ships to which rushed down.”“It sounded assist in the relief operations. Photo shows the dead and the injured at the Ultra stampede in Manila, Philippines, like the mountain exploded, and the Dozens of U.S. troops are currently February 4, 2006, whole thing crumbled,” said in the Philippines for a joint military survivor Dario Libatan, who lost his exercise. wife and three children. “I could not President Gloria Arroyo says see any house standing anymore.” she has ordered the entire naval Its 375 homes and elementary force in the central Philippines school were buried under mud up region to the area. to 30 feet deep. Only a few small Naval ships are being used as piles of debris hint at the floating hospitals and command devastation. Only a few jumbles of centres for the rescue operation. corrugated steel sheeting indicate They say recent heavy rainfall is Guinsaugon ever existed. more likely to blame. Saint Bernard village and The Philippines experiences another town also were affected, bout 20 typhoons each year. and about 3,000 evacuees huddled Earlier this week, 16 people at a municipal hall. were killed when heavy rains and 5460 McLynn Avenue Heavy rains preceded slide flash floods hit the south-eastern Montreal, QC H3X 2R4 Rescue workers were hampered provinces. Tel.: 514-342-4100 by the thick, soft mud that In 2004, storms left about Cell:514-891-0342 remained unstable, along with flash 1,800 people dead or missing in floods spawned by two weeks of provinces northeast of the capital, Manila. February 2006 The North American Filipino Star Page 7 more people productive and this has the emotional energy that empowers raised expectations that include two or more minds to work Global access to the ballot box as well as to creatively together. The synergistic the market place through jobs. approach shows that effective Perspectives When educated people are denied human action in dealing with any political and economic freedom their kind of crisis or challenge is frustrations will contribute to the dependent upon two key factors: (1) spiritual malaise we are the Resources, both human and experiencing today. Old paradigms material, which can be brought to no longer serve society and ethical bear on the situation, and (2) the leadership is needed to foster Process, how the resources are change. Activists, protestors, and utilized in dealing with the terrorists, represent the tip of the situation. If either of the two factors iceberg. It was not the tip of the is missing, the chance of success is iceberg that sank the Titanic and a nil. However, if people work myopic focus on terrorists will not together utilizing their resources Isaac T. Goodine remove the underlying danger born rationally and humanely, they can of cynicism and mistrust harbored produce results beyond the mere From Globalization to Internationalization by disenfranchised and sum of their individual inputs. That Last month, in this column, I are moving to one world in culture dispossessed people who have no is called synergy. It is also the presented a Creed of Peace, as as well as economics. The earlier hope. We need new approaches in premise on which participatory enunciated by the late Ralph M. phase of integration of economic leadership that include Diplomacy democratic administration is Lewis, ending with the words; “I am activities of trade, finance, and in economic, political, cultural and founded. The influence of a leader in guilty of war when I think that the investment has generally been military affairs to restore trust in a synergistic application is land of a man’s birth must referred to as “Globalization”, and peacekeeping and military particularly critical in multi- necessarily be the place of his the broader aspects such as interventions based on military disciplinary teams and working livelihood.” Now, as one of about 80 educational exchanges and ethics and international law that groups that transcend national million trans-nationals working in intercultural activities are now often will contribute to world peace—not boundaries. The knowledge base the world today, I reiterate that I referred to as “Internationalization”. just the absence of war. does not rest on just one person nor hold firmly to the belief and We are at a crossroads in the There are about nine million does the responsibility rest on only philosophy that the accident of process and the interplay between transnational workers spread one pair of shoulders. Above all one's place of birth need not globalization and internationa- around the world from the there must be a willingness to work determine where that person must lization must become more Philippines alone, and this implies for the good of all in our global live and work forever. The fact that transparent, ethical, and better the concept of a team that is multi- society. To help us all to better there are so many millions of us integrated to address three sets of disciplined and transcends national understand the pitfalls of modern working internationally, gives new long-term global issues: a) boundaries. Also, this requires a meaning to cross-cultural commu- Maintaining peace and security, unique set of qualities that depend nications. This is a result of three fighting terrorism, curtailing crime, heavily on the internationalization relatively recent explosions to which and promoting human rights; (b) of the learning process wherever the we are now adjusting: the explosion Fighting systemic corruption, learning and skills development of human population; the explosion curtailing rampant capitalism and takes place. The real challenge is to of knowledge; and the explosion of correcting the unethical exploitation identify rational and humane expectations. After the Second of human and natural resources; principles that we can work toward World War, there was steady and c) Addressing the deep spiritual collectively. The human being is expansion of economic integration malaise whereby many people feel creative emotionally as well as which far outpaced both political that they have no stake in a global intellectually. A feeling is a “thing” society, here is an item that was and cultural integration until the society and believe that there is – just as a “thought” is a “thing.” A published in a magazine in last decade brought about cultural nothing they can do about it by practical outcome is realized when Singapore in the 1960s. “The Seven interdependence, because of ethical and/or legal means. The minds are attuned to understand or Deadly Sins of Society: Politics television and the Internet, and we knowledge explosion has made to see the same thing or to alter the without principles; Pleasure without thoughts until there is a common conscience; Knowledge without vision. This bringing together of character; Wealth without work; 5777 Decarie Boulevard thoughts, knowledge and emotional Commerce without morality; Montreal, QC energy results in human synergy. 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Angeles, Minister and Consul like myself may also be eligible to vote General of the Philippine Embassy to upon the reacquisition or retention of Canada, out of the total 104 voters their Philippine citizenship under P.A. Two Local schools registered last weekend, 89 were new 9225, otherwise known as the registrants and 15 were transferring "Citizenship Retention Act of 2003". launch project with voting precinct primarily from Hong Acquiring a Philippine Dual Citizenship Filipino Parents Kong. He and his Philippine Embassy is not as complicated as one would team, together with the Honourary think. The main requirements are an A first-ever project called Consul Salvador Cabugao were very much encouraged by the turn-out and extended their gratitude to the network of community members, associations, Filipino Montrealers Filipino establishments and the media poised to vote for that help sensitized Filipino citizens to the importance of not only exercising 2007 RP Election their democratic right to be heard but A resounding number of 104 also of their potential ability to effect Philippine passport holders are ready to change in the Philippines. In an effort to exercise their right to vote during the build on this momentum, another

Parents from Ecole des Nations who attended the meeting on February 4, 2006 authenticated birth certificate which is can be ordered via Partenariat école-famille-communauté, www.ecensus.com.ph, a Canadian a partnership among the school, naturalization document and community and family, has been documents such as an expired initiated by the l'École des Nations and Philippine passport to validate previous l'École du Petit-Chapiteau elementary Philippine citizenship. schools. Both schools are located at the Information brochures on the heart of the Plamondon and Victoria Overseas Absentee Voting Registration area where the school population is a will remain available at Cubao mixture of pupils from the Sri Lankan A partial photo of Montrealers who have responded to the Absentee Voting Law and Divisoria, FAMAS Philippine Centre and and Bangladeshi communities among registered at the office of the Honorary Consul, Mr. Salvador Cabugao the Pearl Manila Restaurant. others, however, Filipino pupils account Supplementary information may be for 50 per cent and more of the total population. May 2007 Philippine election of the Overseas Absentee Voting Registration obtained from Montreal Honourary It is for this reason, among others, President, Vice-President, Senators and will be held in early spring, most Consul General Salvador Cabugao at that the pilot project has been launched Party-List Representative. On 11 and probably in May, at the Office of the 344-2022 or from the Philippine and is slated to last until 2006. The 12 February 2006, the Philippine Philippine Honourary Consul in Embassy in Ottawa at (613) 233-1121. overall goal of the pilot project is to help Honourary Consulate located on 6260 Montreal. Watch out for further details Makialam, makilahok, get involved Filipino pupils achieve their fullest Victoria together with the staff from the on this subject during the coming in the your native country's nation- academic potential. Together with a Philippine Embassy in Ottawa, held an months. rebuilding efforts. community liaison agent and resource Overseas Absentee Voting Registration. If you are feeling left out of this persons from l'École des Nations, l'École During an interview with Joseph electoral process, Filipino-Canadians

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CHIRURGIEN DENTISTE / DENTAL SURGEON Rey Nacino, Proprietor Dr. Ben Catungal (514) 367-0355 Operation Manager 5790 COTE DES NEIGES RD. (514) 704-5573 cell SUITE A-024 PHONE: 54-340-8222 (4077) (514) 369-2891 MONTREAL, QUEBEC [email protected] H3S 1Y9 E-Mail: [email protected] February 2006 The North American Filipino Star Page 9 du Petit-Chapiteau, La Table de kinds of activities (films, cooking, her national flower." of a rival of ABS-CBN. Jeunnesse and other community bowling, outings and more) will be held Sampaguita, a Spanish term, comes She said she was saddened by the organizations based in the Côte-des- from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. from the Pilipino words "sumpa kita," reality that instead of taking the Neiges area, the project hopes to hear The cost for the week, including activity which means "I promise you." It is a responsibility for the stampede that the concerns of parents with regard to fees, is $75. Extended care is also pledge of mutual love. In early days, a killed more than 70 people and injured their children's experience in learning available, but the cost has not yet been young couple exchanged sampaguita about 300, ABS-CBN is pinning the French and identify possible measures determined. necklaces much like a bride and groom blame on the tragedy’s victims. that would help improve the situation. Bill Durnan, 4988 Vézina, exchange wedding rings nowadays. To The President was reacting to news As it is with mutually-benefiting Telephone: 872-6073. Plenty of this day, garlands of sampaguita are reports and interviews on ABS-CBN initiatives, the project will also the call activities are planned for spring break offered to dignitaries and special guests. that the network had nothing to do with upon parents to be more actively week. Introductory figure skating Jasmine arrived in the Philippines in the stampede and that it was the fans of involved in their children's formative lessons will be offered Monday, pre-recorded times, most likely as an the noontime program Wowowee who years by being involved in the schools' Wednesday and Friday, 1:30 to 2:30 item of barter or gift on board trade were to blame. outreach programmes and information p.m., for ages 7 to 17, as well as boats plying the South China Sea. In She faulted the ABS-CBN sessions. supervised pick-up hockey for players the Philippines a type of Jasmine called management for stoking the victims’ To jump start this initiative parents 17 and under, Monday to Friday, 2:30 sampaga was described as early as hope for instant fortune. The program such as Evelyn de Vera (mother of to 3:30 p.m. Family free skate every 1698 when Ignacio Mercado, an offered hundreds of thousands of pesos Genesis Cornelio), Nancy Hufancia day, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Augustinian monk, first wrote about its in cash prizes. (mother of Cyrus de la Cruz), Manuel Doug Harvey, 4985 West Hill, medicinal use in the Declaracion de las The President reiterated her Tungpalan (father of Jessica and Joyce Telephone: 872-6028. Free skate, virtudes de los arboles y plantas que administration’s commitment that Tungpalan), Josephine Abalos (mother Monday to Friday between 3 and 5 p.m. estan en este libro. In translation, justice would be served. of Mark Penullar) and Rosella Oriña Côte-des-Neiges Pool, 4880 Van Horne, Mercado said that the leaves of the “We have to show to everyone that (mother of Darryl and Danika Oriña) Telephone: 342-9988. Free swim times sampaga (which has bigger flowers than no one is above the law and justice is from l'École des Nations took time out of from Monday to Friday. No charge for sampaguita) made a wonderful syrup to equal to all and does not recognize rich their hectic schedule to attend the first children with membership cards. They comfort the heart. The vapour was a from poor,” she said. meeting on Saturday, 4 February of the can get a free membership card by good cure for asthma. In reply to the President’s criticism, parents of Filipino pupils at l'École des coming to the pool with a parent and To learn more about our national ABS-CBN said in a statement: “We are Nations. bringing a passport-size ID photo. flower, visit: www.turoturo.com or saddened that President Arroyo has Together with these key parents and Mackay Rehabilitation Centre, www.toptropicals.com or visit the prejudged the results of the government Maria-Cécilia Gomez, our resource 3500 Décarie, Telephone: 482-0500. Intercultural Library at 6767 Côte-des- investigation into the Ultra stampede. person from l'École des Nations, we The Vio-Camp day camp, specializing in Neiges and browse through their “Gabby Lopez has already claimed were able to identify a supplementary adapted physical activities, is open to collection of Philippine books. moral responsibility, and ABS-CBN school activity such as a reading and young people ages 5 to 18, with or moved immediately to address the comprehension activity that can further without physical limitations. Activities Gloria slams ABS-CBN needs of the victims and their families. help children understand the French are held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday We continue to do so, focusing now on language. Parents however emphasized to Friday. The cost for the week is $100 for Ultra stampede medium- and long-term assistance,” the that homework help after school still and includes extended care. network said. remains a necessary resource for those Intercultural Library, 6767 Côte- Wednesday, February 15, 2006 Rumors that the Lopez-owned student who need it. On the fun side, a des-Neiges, Telephone: 868-4716. A PRESIDENT Arroyo on Tuesday blamed network appears to be taking a critical family outing is also planned for the one-hour workshop for ages 8-13 is ABS-CBN for the deadly stampede in line against the administration surfaced near future, perhaps an outing to a held every afternoon at 2 p.m.Tuesday, Ultra in Pasig City and criticized the after the network scrapped Vice typically Quebec get-away: La cabane à March 7 - Introduction to the network for faulting the people who President Noli de Castro’s long-running sucre or Sugaring Off. Internet,Wednesday, March 8 - Science wanted to take part in its prize-laden TV program Magandang Gabi Bayan. At the For further information on this time! Science experiments to see how show. height of the calls last year for the project or to participate in this chemistry is part of everyday The President delivered her tirade President to resign, de Castro had initiative, please call Riza Esmeralda, life,Wednesday, March 8 - 3 p.m. - from the studio of dzRH, a radio station refused to withdraw his support for community liaison agent, or drop by the Jewellery making workshop,Thursday, Maria-Cécila Gomez's room on March 9 - Creating a group ABC Tuesdays from 4 pm to 6 pm or by Friday, March 10 - Treasure hunt. To calling 736-1537, 8162 at l'École des reserve, call 868-4721 or come in Nations and on Wednesdays at l'École person. The library is closed Monday. du Petit-Chapiteau from 4 pm to 6 pm Sampaguita - The or by calling 736-8192 or 489-4467 (home). The library is closed Monday. Philippine National Activities for the Flower Sampaguita, otherwise known as spring break Jasmine sambac ("Maid of Orlean" variety) is our national flower. It is a If you are looking for activities for symbol of purity, simplicity, humility your children during the break, look no and strength. Its blossom is celebrated further than the CDN-NDG area. The in Philippine legends, stories and songs. CDN-NDG Borough has organized a In the Philippines, the sampaguita also number of activities for the week of 6 to 10 March. Here are the details. Côte-des-Neiges Sports Centre, 4880 Van Horne, Telephone: 342-9988. A sports camp will be held for children ages 7 to 12, from Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., except on Wednesday, when hours are 8:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The cost is $50 for the 1st child, $45 for the 2nd and $40 for the 3rd or more from the same family. The cost of an outing on Wednesday is included. To register, bring the child's health insurance card, a passport-size photo, the parent's social insurance number and payment (cash, cheque or has a number of names: sambac, bank or postal money order). sampagung, campopot, lumabi, kulatai, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce pongso, malur and manul. Community Centre, 3757 Prud'homme, In 1934, the American Governor- Telephone: 484-6123. Children can General Frank Murphy, moved by take part in all sorts of activities sentiment, named it a national symbol. (outings, crafts, sports, games and "Sentiment has dictated the selection of surprises), from Monday to Friday, 9 national flowers either symbolical of a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost for the week is certain national or sentiments, or $95, along with $25 for outings and the reminiscent of some important membership card. Extended care will historical or traditional events,"Murphy also be available, at an additional $5 explained in Proclamation Number 652. per day, from 8 to 9 a.m. and 5 to 6 p.m. "France has her fleur-de-lis and Japan Walkley Community Centre, 6650 Côte her cherry blossom," he said. "In the Saint-Luc, Telephone: 369-9449. All same way the Philippines should have Page 10 The North American Filipino Star February 2006 Political Subdivision Batanes has six municipalities, 29 TOURISM barangays, and one congressional district. The six municipalities are Batanes: Ivana, Uyugan, Mahatao, Basco (the TheNatures Playground capital), and the island municipalities of Sabtang and Itbayat. The province is home to the famous Climate Ivatans who are nationally acclaimed as The Batanes weather is rather the "True Insulares". The Ivatans are of pleasant. Compared to the rest of the Malay stock, tracing their roots to early country, Batanes is blessed with a immigrants from Formosa, Taiwan as cooler, balmier climate. It enjoys well as Spaniards who came to the practically four seasons, the best one island in the 16th century. Being an being summer which is from March to insular people, the Ivatans have kept June. Average monthly rainfall is 450 the purity of their gene pool through mm. time. Population The island-province of Batanes was The 2002 census of population for created by a series of volcanic activities Batanes registered a population total of and other geologic forces millions of 16,467 distributed over a land area of years ago. 230 square kilometers. Batanes lies at the northernmost tip Language / Dialect of the Philippines, where the Pacific The mother tongue of Batanes is Ocean merges with the South China Ivatan, spoken by 93.94 percent of all San Carlops Church in Batanes Sea. It is composed of three major households. The Ilocano dialect is also islands, namely: Batan which contains spoken while Filipino and English are the capital town of Basco, Sabtang, and generally spoken and understood. Itbayat. Close by are seven islets Major Industries The province has a total agricultural land area of 5,438 hectares and has a wide area open for agricultural expans

Sabtang farmer Sunset in Basco including Amianan, which is the closest to Formosa. Thus, Batanes has been identified as the country¡¯s potential An Ivatan woman gateway to East China. Geography "The island-province is strewn on a 4,500 square kilometer expanse of territorial waters, the Luzon Strait and Balintang Channel, where the Pacific Ocean merges with the South China Sea, a sealane between the Philippines and the southern parts of Japan, China, Hongkong, and Taiwan. It is bounded on the north by the Bashi Channel, on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the west by the South China Sea, and on the south by the Balintang Channel. It is characterized by gently rolling hills, cliffs, and black and white sand beaches. Batanes is about 860 kilometers (approx. 525 miles) from Manila. Basco, the capital town, is about 280 kilometers north of Aparri and about Arkong Bato 190 kilometers south of Taiwan. Sabtang vernacular house

Houses lined up along narrow pathways www.filipinostar.org Basco rocky beach Page 11 February 2006 The North American Filipino Star the Philippines and Bahrain. Both 4. Baguio, Benguet Province Entry of migratory birds MEDICAL TOURISM documents were signed during the 5. Sagada w/ Bontoc, Mountain feared in Mindanao Bahrain visit last December where Province RP ready for medical Tourism Undersecretary for Planning 6. Vigan/Laoag/Pagudpud GENERAL SANTOS CITY: The and Product Development Evelyn Pantig 7. Tabuk Water Rafting, Kalinga Department of Agriculture has warned tourism: DoT chief was a member of the Philippine Province (July to Feb ONLY) residents in Central Mindanao on the HEALTHCARE with leisure. This is delegation. 8. Subic entry of Indonesian migratory birds how the Department of Tourism (DoT) Pagdanganan said that the tour 9. Laguna suspected as carriers of bird-flu disease. describes its new program, aimed at programs are already being finalized for 10. Bulacan "We urge the public to immediately positioning the country as a competitive integration with the medical packages 11. Batangas report any presence of chicken, ducks health vacation destination in Asia, while local and international sales 12. Quezon and other migratory birds suspected to targeting both the wellness/spa and missions and promotions are already 13. Rizal have been infected with the disease," medical tourist markets. being lined up to draw attention to the 14. Pampanga Regional Executive Director Abusama Newly appointed Tourism Secretary program. A medical tourism forum and 15. Bicol M. Alid said. Roberto Pagdanganan has announced modules for the implementation of a 16. Baler,! Aurora Province (Nov to June that under the Philippine Health "Mabuhay Host Training Program" for ONLY) Tourism Program (PHTP), D0T and its healthcare frontliners of accredited 17. Biak na Bato, San Miguel, Bulacan partner agencies such as the hospitals are already underway to (Nov to May ONLY) Department of Health- Philippine strengthen the country's readiness as a 18. Mt. Makiling, Los Banos Laguna Institute of Traditional and Alternative health vacation destination (Team Building/Retreats/Fun Climb) Health Care (DoH-PITAHC) and the Nature Adventure for 19. Puerto Gallera, Mindoro Department of Energy (DoE) will jointly Summer in the Philippines 20. Mindoro Oriental Eco-tour offer cost-effective medical treatments 21. Taal Lake & Volcano combined with special itineraries that March 22. Pandan Island & Apo Reef, (Nov to will showcase some of the best tourist 11 - 12 WHALE WATCHING - Donsol, June ONLY) attractions the country has to offer, Sorsogo! n, & Best of Bicol swim with 23. Palawan (Coron, El Nido or Puerto according to a press statement. giant whale sharks found in Donsol, Princesa) 25K/person 8days Pagdanganan explained that the Sorsogon, witness the most magical 24. Donsol Whale Watching, (Jan to sights of fireflies dancing and flickering He said that employees from the new program will be offered to tourists VIOLETA C. IMPERIAL while your boatman silently paddles department's regional avian-flu whose main purpose for visiting the A Very Blessed Lady down a wide river. p 6,300 all included influenza task force have been Philippines is to undergo "minimally Board of Director for Environment pati souvenir & wholesome fun dispatched to monitor the entry of invasive medical procedures and Education migratory birds in Laguasan Marsh in treatments." Specially-designed tours Nature Awareness & Conservation SCUBA DIVING LESSONS Every 7-9pm Maguindanao and North Cotabato. integrated to the medical programs by Club, Inc. per class min. of 2 M.T.W.Th in Makati The Philippine Coast Guard has also accredited hospitals and healthcare (NonStock, NonProfit NGO) City. Check out dive Sat & Sunday. stepped up its monitoring activity establishments will then be offered to 8061720 Telefax Course fee P 12500 inclusive of dive around the coastal towns of Sarangani suit the needs of these identified market 09194839250 for Smart users instructor, pool, wetsuit, BCD, to prevent the entry of birds from segment. The tourism chief said that 09155101600 for Globe users Regulators, Tanks, weights, aircon Indonesia. In May last year, Coast the Philippines is one of the few EMAIL: [email protected] classroom, PADI Open Water Wall Guard men seized 350 assorted birds countries in Southeast Asia and in Asia WEBSITE: www.nacci.coms.ph (dont for Certificate & PADI Open Water believed smuggled from Indonesia at See to offer such specialized tour offerings, get the "s" in com) Certification Card and wholesome fun. with only Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore GROUP MAIL : Check Out dive fee P 3,500 inclusive of and India as competitors. [email protected] See Page 15 Birds Pagdanganan revealed that the buffet meals, tanks, dive boats, dive DoT, DoH-PITAHC and DoE have master, non aircon accommodation. already come up with rules and NOT INCLUDED mask, snorkle, fins, regulations for the accreditation of wetsuit, bootie, fare to and from health establishments, wellness centers Batangas and hospitals in the country, using DoT standards for hotels as the benchmark. APRIL Currently, only St. Luke's Medical 1-2 Coron Beachy Escapades Palawan Center has met these standards. (8 beds left) "But the horizon for health tourism Birthday trip in the country looks very good as the applications for accreditation of other 6-9 Basco & Sabtang, BATANES hospitals such as the Asian Hospital in P 17,000 all included Alabang, Capitol Medical Center in (3 seats/beds left) Quezon City and Medical City in Mandaluyong City are already April HOLY WEEK (SUPER Limited underway," the tourism chief said in the Seats, First Come, First Serve) press statement. 13 Laguna Visita Iglesia P888/pax Likewise, through the efforts of the (30seats left) DoT, the government's firm support in 13-16 Sagada, Fedelisan & Bontoc developing the potentials of medical (15seats/beds left) tourism is manifested in the 2004 13-16 Vigan, Laoag, Pagudpud Visita Investment Priorities Plan, qualifying its Iglesia (20beds left) development for certain investment 13-16 Batanes Visita Iglesia FULLY incentives such as reduced tariffs on BOOKED the importation of hospital equipment. The tourism chief said that 21! - 23 EARTH DAY CELEBRATION currently, health holidays are Fri-Sun National Ecology Center of the significantly growing outside Europe Philippines and in other parts of the world. "If the Everybody is Welcome to Save the growth of health resorts in Asia, Environment including the Philippines, is anything to go by, there would seem to be a huge MAY Pahiyas potential to develop health tourism as a great come-on since health and ASIAN BACK PACKING wellness using traditional healing June 21 to 25 Mt. Kota Kinabalu & methods, such as massage, healing and Brunie OPEN herbs is very much part of the Asian June 25 to 29 Bangkok & Cambodia culture," the tourism chief stressed. (open for group of 4 ONLY) The country's bid was also June 29 to July 3 Malaysia, Singapore, reinforced during the state visit of Indonesia Open President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in PLEASE CALL FOR INQUIRY on the Bahrain last December when she signed Asia tours, a memorandum of understanding for emails inquiry will not be entertained. tourism cooperation wherein the Bahraini government expressed interest JULY Birding and Fruit Tree Planting in sending medical tourists to the AUGUST Mangrove tree planting Philippines. SEPTEMBER Coastal Clean Up This will also be facilitated with the air services agreement forged between www.filipinostar.org Page 12 The North American Filipino Star February 2006 Filipino Star Photo Gallery

Claro BErmudez, Head Scout Leader & Registrar, Laging Handa Scout Group The Filipino Solidarity Cooperative (Divisoria Cubao) Board of Directors and Committees held a congratulates new member Peter Kevin Araneta after his investiture while meeting last January 22, 2006 at Gilmore College. (See brieft article on page 2) assistant Scout leader Nida V. Buataran looks on. (February 11, 2006) Spring session Writing Workshop April 21-23, 2006 • Interactive Registration by DISCOVER A LEARNING PROCESS appointment THAT WORKS FOR ANY KIND OF • Multi-cultural WRITING • Practical Please call • Dynamic 514-485-7861 The workshop is the Brainchild of • Creative This seminar will be Isaac Goodine and incorporates ideas • Intensive Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi followed by a Public BA, Dipl. Ed., TESL, MA developed from Peter Elbow’s useful • Powerful Speaking Workshop Founder & Director-General, Gilmore Isaac T. Goodine, BsC., B.Ed. C.Eng. book for writers, Writing Without • Insightful to be announced at the College, Publisher & Editor, International Author of “Leaders Leading Leaders,” end of the course. The North American Filipino Star Resource person, Transparency Internationall • Useful

www.filipinostar.org February 2006 The North American Filipino Star Page 13

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Mag-ahente para sa www.mercan.com Jerry Morgan - CSIC No. 041555 dagdag na Canadian laws are complex. Call us to make an appointment for a FREE CONSULTATION. kita. E-mail: info@mercan,com 514-282-9214 Fax: 514-282-1084 MERCAN CAPITAL LTD., Founded in 1989 Mercan Capital Ltd.., 390 Notre Dame West, Suite 410, Montreal (Quebec) H2W 1T9 February 2006 Page 14 The North American Filipino Star Laing Gabi Pinangat (Taro Leaf Wraps) Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

1 pound or 8-10 medium-sized leaves of gabi, include stems if possible Philippine Cuisine 2 pounds shredded gabi leaves, include chopped stems (dried packages are available from Oriental stores) 2 (13.5 ounce) cans coconut milk 3/4 cup your choice of diced pork, Lumpia, Pampango Style garlic in oil. Add onions and sliced pork. shelled, chopped fresh shrimp or salmon Cover and cook until meat is tender. 1/4 cup tinapa or smoked fish, optional (Vegetable Spring Rolls) Season with salt and pepper. Add sweet 2 tablespoons bagoong (salted fish, and red potatoes, cooking until slightly preserved krills or small shrimps) or 1 tender. Add green beans, carrots and teaspoon salt cabbage. Mix well. If needed, add broth. 1 tablespoon ginger root, fresh and finely Continue cooking with occasional stirring chopped (or powdered ginger) until vegetables are tender. Remove from 1 tablespoon minced garlic clove (fresh is heat. Drain in a colander and cool. preferred over powder) 1 small hot pepper (red or green), Separate wrappers from each other. Keep chopped into pieces, or crushed or covered with a damp cloth. Place 2 to 3 powdered or 1 teaspoon powdered black, heaping tablespoons of cooked mixture on a wrapper. Fold once horizontally. Next, fold in both ends and roll. Wet edges with water to seal. Deep-fat fry. Serve hot or keep warm by placing on a hot tray, uncovered. Makes 30 to 36 egg aside. rolls. Spread gabi leaves on a platter. Put Serves: 30-36 about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into Ingredients: Serve with a dipping sauce of vinegar, each leaf. Pour 1 teaspoon of the coconut 1/4 cup vegetable oil salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. May be curd (from other can, uncooked) on top of 3 cloves garlic, chopped frozen before frying. Lay egg rolls in a mixture before wrapping. Fold the leaf on 1 large onion, sliced single layer on a cookie sheet, allowing 4 sides and tie with its own stem if 1 pound pork, sliced small and thin space between each. Freeze. When frozen, available and reinforce with a small string 2 cups sweet potatoes, cubed 1/2 inch pack together in a plastic bag. or thick thread around 4 sides ending 2 cups red potatoes, cubed 1/2 inch with a bow on top for easier handling or red or cayenne pepper. 2 cups green beans, cubed 1/2 inch individual serving. (This also prevents 2 cups carrots, cubed 1/2 inch accidental opening of the wrap while Cooking Method: 3 cups cabbage, shredded cooking) Cook the wraps in the remaining 1/2 to 1 cup chicken broth coconut milk in a covered saucepan for Slightly thicken 1 can coconut milk in an salt and pepper to taste about 8-10 minutes over low heat, until open pan for 2 minutes. Add your choice Philippine lumpia wrappers (thin egg roll most of the liquid evaporates, leaving just of diced pork, shrimp or salmon pieces; wrappers) enough moisture on the wraps. Serve hot gabi stems and leaves; bagoong; all of the with rice. Cooking Method: spices; and tinapa into the mixture. Cook over slow heat for about 8 minutes, Using a 6 to 8 quart saucepan, saute Cooking spring rolls stirring constantly until thickened. 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Exam car available like to meet a Filipina • Pharmacy Assistant Toton 514-969-9622 • Security Officer write to [email protected] E-Mail: [email protected] ENGLISH, FRENCH • Daycare Provider • Accounting Technician MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE Saturdays available DRIVING LESSON ROOM FOR RENT All levels & other subjects on request Info: Call 514-342-1000 Car available for EXAM Room for rent, weekend, Friday to Sunday evening. Please phone 514-485-7861 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Suite 351 1 hour practice only $20 514-366-9778, speak to April (Front of Snowdon Metro) KHALIL 514-965-0903 February 2006 The North American Filipino Star Page 15 rejoiced over Pacquiao's triumph. smugglers have been using Sarangani From Page 1 Pacquiao Speaking on the Malacanang palace From Page 11 Birds (formerly Balut Island) as the dropping motorcade left the Malacanang grounds Friday, Pacquiao called on his Sumbang Point, Glan. point for birds from Indonesia. presidential palace, where he was countrymen to unite "with or without a The catch, which included colorful He said the smugglers, using received by President Gloria Macapagal (boxing) fight." Indonesian parrots, was said to be powerful motorboats, would segregate Arroyo. Pacquiao, 27, is extremely popular worth P1 million. The birds were the birds upon arrival in Sarangani Confetti rained down as it inched its in the Philippines. Before his fight, he burned on suspicion they were infected Island before they are sent to Gen. way through Manila's old financial released a music CD that included the with the bird-flu virus. Santos City and other neighboring center, while admirers waving small song, "This fight is for you," which is Contaminated birds spread flu cities and provinces in Central Philippine flags by the roadside chanted being played by radio stations virus through their saliva, nasal Mindanao. his name. A banner on another truck nationwide. secretions and feces. Vulnerable birds Agriculture Secretary Domingo read, "The victory of Pacquiao is the He has also starred in two Filipino are easily infected when they directly Panganiban, during his visit to victory of the Filipino." action movies and has endorsed a got in touch with the contaminated Sarangani last week, said officials are Pacquiao, who flew back to Manila number of local products, from socks to fluids. taking concerted efforts to keep the from Los Angeles with his wife Friday, a herbal food supplement. Lt. Comdr. Oscar C. Endona, the country free from the virus. was met at the airport by his two sons At the victory celebration organized local Coast Guard commander, said and mother. He was mobbed at the by officials at Manila's seaside airport by fans who sought his boulevard, Pacquiao and Arroyo sang autograph and posed for pictures with his hit song on a stage with Filipino gold ACCOUNTING AND him. medalists from the recent Southeast "Now, my happiness is complete," he Asian Games held in the Philippines. FAIZ INCOME TAX SERVICES said, referring to the family reunion Pacquiao told reporters earlier he after months of separation while he was ready to take on Morales again or trained in the United States. the Mexican's countryman, Marco At the presidential palace, Arroyo - Antonio Barrera, who he stopped in the Come and see us soon !!! beaming with pride - called in the 11th round in their encounter in We are palace kitchen staff and posed for a November 2003. photograph with the Filipino boxing "I am the thorn in the throat of the * Reliable *Affordable *Convenient *All Year Round sensation, who has been called the Mexican boxers," Pacquiao said. "Right WE DO "people's champ" by the local media. now I can fight anyone ... in the same The presidential cooks offered weight level." Personal and Business special pastries shaped like boxing gloves stuffed with chicken and wild Join Gilmore students’ INCOME TAX RETURNS mushrooms for the champion. annual “Cabane à sucre” His victory over the more fancied Morales came as a much needed morale Sugaring Off 5871 Victoria Avenue Suite 104 booster for his nation following months Party Montreal, QC H3W 2R7 of political conflict that saw mounting Sunday, April 2 calls for Arroyo to resign over (corner Bourret near Cote St. Catherine Metro) allegations that she cheated to win the Call 485-7861 2004 election. for ticket Feuding political factions briefly put reservations Tel.: 514-733-5611 Fax: 5124-733-0230 aside their differences as Filipinos

The PBSSQ Annual Easter Brunch will be held on Sunday Learn the Art and April 16, 2006 12:30 pm after Science of Catering the 11:00 Mass at St. Kevin's Parish. Tickets are $15.00 for Register now by appointment adults $10.00 for seniors. Call 514-485-7861 Includes food, dancing & entertainments for the kids. Call Dolly at 514-735-5796 for tickets or information. Page 16 The North American Filipino Star February 2006

Fair sometime during spring or mentioned that one or two were summer, an ASEAN Forum sometime in present during last Friday's meeting Community News summer or fall, an ASEAN Day with the social worker and the Reception sometime towards the end of Consul Olalia from Toronto. As far September, accompanied by a overseas for their work and as her hospital bills go, it will Philippine Centre achievements. “It is also a way of newspaper supplement, and ASEAN sports throughout the year to promote probably keep on mounting. She showing the rest of the world that the will need more active and dynamic Foundation ready Philippines is proud of the virtues and camaraderie among mission members physiotherapy; she should really go qualities of its own citizenry,” and their families. to publish directory Ambassador Brillantes added. I will distribute LITA's to a Reahab. Center for that, not a Since its establishment in December information to all Filipinos who Foster home. I told her to cal me The Philippine Centre Foundation 1991, the Presidential Award has been have responded to our and for Dr. Chang (her internist and of Greater Montreal is pleased to bestowed upon 235 Filipinos and staunch ally) to write a summary acknowledge the following contributors private organizations in thirty-six (36) and referral to Eddie when the to the Philippine Center Building Call for financial countries. The awards are open to Project. Total contribution received for timing is right and Ed will assess Filipino individuals, associations (both help for Filipina period July to December 2004 is her rehab. needs. She will be taught formal and informal), communities $7,310.00. SOLICITATION FOR FINANCIAL a home programme and can be seen overseas, as well as foreign private Mary Damianakis, Ugo & Mrs. periodically at our clinic ( Clinique individuals and organizations abroad. HELP. We are expecting $2,000 to Deangelis, Marie-Luise Ernstsohn, There are four categories of awards $10,000 donation from the Filipino de Physiatrie Cote des Neiges ) Peter Ernstsohn, Deogracias & Mrs. to be conferred on Filipinos and private Canadian Community. At this stage Thank you for sending this Esguerra, Filipino-Canadian organizations overseas, namely, the of LAILA, she needs FINANCIAL note. I was told about Laida by the Association of the West Island, John & Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) HELP more than anything else. Phil. Embassy via a Fax of the Liz Martinez, Romeo Rodriguez and Award, the Banaag Award, the Kaanib Ambassador's letter to Immigration Manuela De Guzman, Francis Respondent to our call for help are ng Bayan Award and the Pamana ng Canada requesting an extention of her Scarpaleggia, Normand & Catherine directed to issue checque issued to Pilipino Award. visa due to her iunfortunate illness. The Talbot, Paterno Zacarias and FEDERATION FILIPINO Nominations may be submitted to Embassy also sent a copy of a letter anonymous contributor. CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF the Philippine Embassy, 130 Albert St., sent to another member of parliament Subscribe to the Philippine Suite 606, Ottawa, Ontario, K1P 5G4, QUEBEC Inc. seeking his intervention in the matter. I Directory - a new concept that provides and must be received by the 4369 Circle Road, Pierrefonds, sent a copy of both to the office if the durable visibility to: Members of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas on or Quebec, H9H 2G8 (TEL NO. 514 Mt. Royal MP, Mr. Irwin Cotler and Philippine community of Greater before May 15, 2006. For more 696 7008) spoke to his administrative assistant Montreal; businesses offering services information or a nomination form, Please note down on your checque Diane di Sablon on Jan. 27th. Laila and products; services provided by the please contact the Philippine Embassy had a contract till Feb. 1st or 2nd and Provincial, Federal and Municipal "FOR LAILA ILUMBRE FUND" at tel. no. (613) 233-1121; fax no. (613) she is in fact not covered by Medicare governments; Social, education and A receipt will be mailed back to the 233-4165; e-mail: and incurring a daily room rate of health services, etc. DONOR [email protected]. $2,000.00. She was afflicted by a Subscription to the Philippine Whatever collection we make neurological condition which caused Directory will help build a PHILIPPINE Ambassador Brillantes up to end of FEBRUARY 2006, we her to be paralyzed from head to toe CENTER FOR THE FILIPINOS. assumes chairmanship of will cash and give it to LAILA. All during the acute stage. She is receiving For information call Tel No. 626- Donors will be furnished with a adequate care at the JGH but will 7635 or 630-3961 or 961-3951 UN committee simple ACCOUNTING and copy of require intensive rehabilitation which is Nominations are now open for the ACCEPTANCE, signed by LAILA. costly.The Westmount MP, Mme. Presidential Awards for Filipino Ambassador Jose S. Brillantes has Lucienne Robilliard has been furnished Individuals and Organizations Overseas The PRESS will be invited during assumed as Chairman of the ASEAN- copies of the same letters, Laila's recent for 2006. this TURNOVER. Ottawa Committee (AOC), following employer being from Westmount. Philippine Ambassador to Canada Laila's situation by Lita Sideco turnover ceremonies on 18 January In the meantime, Annie Miaral has Jose S. Brillantes said the Presidential [email protected]> during the 195th AOC Meeting. The been briefing the office of the MP Awards for Filipino Individuals and AOC is composed of the Head of I know about Laila's situation. I Raymonde Folco who was our support Organizations Overseas are bestowed Missions of ASEAN Embassies and High had a long visit with her on Sunday and guiding light during the 80s when on distinguished Filipino individuals Commissions accredited to Ottawa. afternoon. Her progress is the Domestic Care programme was and organizations overseas by the By reason of Ambassador Brillantes’ remarkable and she has a very changed and became the much President of the Philippines in a chairmanship, Minister and Consul determined positive desire to improved version, the Live-In Care- ceremony during the observance of the General Joseph Gerard B. Angeles also giver Programme. She will be of great “Month of Overseas Filipinos” at the continue helping her health team in automatically assumed the help in this matter. Annie is keeoing her Malacanan Palace in Manila. A biennial her progressive rehabilitation. She chairmanship of the AOC Working posted . event, the ceremonies will take place in seems to be well-liked and admired Group, composed of deputies and It seems that Filipinos are really December of this year, 2006. for her active participation in her officers of helpful and supportive based on Felix' This distinguished honor is awarded the ASEAN missions. Minister Angeles care. She informed me that her TV letter. Each of us do what we can. Best to Filipino individuals and is assisted in the Working Group by is being paid for by the nurses on case scenario: she is accorded an organizations abroad who have Third Secretary and Vice Consul the ward. Her doctor promised to extention of her 21 mos. to 24 mos, at Rhenita B. Rodriguez. continue being her MD even when which and her employer be allowed to Nominations for 2006 Outgoing AOC Chairman she is transferred out to a Foster extend her contract giving her time to Presidential Awards Magdalene Chee Siong Teo, High Home, which her social worker is in apply as an immigrant. She has a good Commissioner for Brunei Darussalam, the process of arranging. She does prognosis with adequate REHAB. and determination. now open turned over the AOC gavel and sound not want to go back to the block to Ambassador Brillantes, in the THE BOTTOM LINE IS "A FILIPINA demonstrated examples of Filipino Philippines in her present presence of other AOC Heads of Mission NEEDS YOUR FINANCIAL HELP MORE excellence and the best of Filipino and members of the AOC Working condition. She hopes to recover and THAN ANYTHING ELSE" LET US HELP values, as well as the ideals of civil Group. go back to work. She claims that HER. society organizations that have The first major AOC activity under her employer are very considerate Felix Salazar furthered the well-being and interests of the Philippine chairmanship will be the and good people and are law- Filipinos, both in the Philippines and Working Visit of ASEAN Heads of abiding, so had to terminate her JGH Mini-Med overseas,” Ambassador Brillantes said. Mission to the Canadian West Coast, “The year 2006 awardees will contract at 21 months due to her particularly in the provinces of British School unlocks include exemplars of Filipino illness. They continue to Columbia and Alberta, slated in March excellence, individuals who have communicate and in fact her apt. 2006. The visit will include calls on the health mysteries dedicated their work in the service of was paid for by them till Dec. 05. Premiers and Lieutenant-Governors of the Filipino people, leaders of British Columbia and Alberta, the before terminating her lease.. She JGH and Pfizer Canada host community initiatives that promote the provincial ministers of investment and has a good friend, and a kind public education series common good, and advocates for the trade, and the local chambers of janitor at the building who stored promotion and protection of the rights Montreal, February 6, 2006 - What commerce to promote ASEAN as a trade her belongings. of others. Civil society organizations are the latest emerging infections that partner and investment destination. I was impressed by the based overseas whose programs have affect our society today? Where do they Another major project during the helped improve the lives of others, personality of this woman in her come from? What can we do to protect Philippine chairmanship is the forging particularly in the marginalized sectors, 30s, who has an BEducation ( has ourselves? of the 2005-2006 Canada-ASEAN Joint will also be honored,” he added. not worked as a teacher at home ), Why is screening the Number One Cooperation Work Plan. According to the Ambassador, the who told me of the many Filipinos way to prevent colorectal cancer? What The Philippine chairmanship will 2006 Presidential Awards will be more is a colonoscopy? also focus on promoting ASEAN who came to visit but many have than an occasion for the country to Is prostate cancer an inevitable awareness. In line with this objective, not been aroun lately and no one is extend recognition and gratitude to part of aging, or can men do something AOC is planning to host an ASEAN Food in a position to take her in . She Filipino individuals and organizations to prevent it? February 2006 The North American Filipino Star Page 17 Impress your friends and family Dr. Nancy Morin (Colorectal own home! It also makes a great gift! Beware of Text Scam with your knowledge about these hot Surgery): "Working Where the Sun Each Mini-Med series is available Philippine Embassy Warns medical topics and more, by taking part Don't Shine: Colorectal Screening and for $45 (personal) or $90 (institutional). in the innovative, educational and Prevention Tips" A special rate of $25 is available for Filipinos in Canada entertaining JGH Mini-Med School! The Dr. Martin Black (Surgery): 2006 JGH Mini-Med School registrants. The Philippine Embassy is warning popular public education series returns "Cutting Remarks from a Head and For more information, visit www.jgh.ca to be wary of text messages that to the Jewish General Hospital (JGH) Neck Surgeon" and click on JGH Mini-Med School. promise large cash winnings from this spring, and the JGH and Pfizer Dr. Jacques Corcos (Urology): About the JGH purported raffle draws in the Canada are inviting Montrealers to don "Keep the Plumbing Humming: A Since 1934, the Sir Mortimer B. Philippines, a scheme that has their lab coats to hear straight talk in Lecture on Urology" Davis - Jewish General Hospital, a victimized some Filipinos in Canada. non-technical language from some of Dr. Samer Abi Nader (Dentistry): McGill University teaching hospital, has Ambassador Jose S. Brillantes the JGH's most dynamic physicians and "To Implant or not to Implant-That is provided "Care for All," serving patients advised Filipihjos in Canada to be researchers. the Question" from diverse religious, linguistic and careful in providing personal Registration is still underway for The French series will feature: cultural backgrounds in Montreal, information to senders of text messages the spring series, which will take place Dr. Andre Dascal (Infectious throughout Quebec and beyond. As one promising large amounts of money to at the JGH every Tuesday evening from Diseases and Microbiology) : "Infections of the province's largest acute-care avoid being victimized by these April 4 to 25 (French sessions) and May émergeantes : mutations naturelles et hospitals, the JGH has achieved a fraudsters. 2 to June 6 (English sessions). Space is créations en laboratoire" reputation for excellence in key medical The text messages usually contain limited, and seats are filling up fast, so Dr. Nancy Morin (Colorectal specialties by continually expanding details such as “Congratulations! The register today at www.jgh.ca or by Surgery) : "Travailler dans l'ombre : le and upgrading its facilities for clinical last four digits of your Subscriber calling 514-340-8222, local 3337. dépistage du cancer colorectal et treatment and teaching, as well as Identify Module (SIM) card has won The fee is $80 for adults and $50 comment le prévenir" research at the Lady Davis Institute for P500,000 from new PAGCOR/CB for students (under 25 with student ID) Dr. Jacques Corcos (Urology) : "De Medical Research. For more, please visit Philippine Foundation.” It then asks and seniors (60 and over) for all six la tuyauterie qui fonctionne bien : une www.jgh.ca. the recipient to call a “Director Jeg V. English sessions. For the four-week conférence en urologie" Contact: Chua: for instruction on how to claim French series, the cost is $55 for adults Dr. Jean-François Morin (Cardiac Glenn J. Nashen the prize. Upon calling this “Director and $35 for students (under age 25 with Surgery) : "Évolution de la chirurgie Director Chua”, the recipient of the text message student ID) and seniors (age 60 and cardiaque de maxi à mini" Public Affairs & Communications would be asked to send personal over). Register online to take advantage Where: Jewish General Hospital Jewish General Hospital information before the supposed prize of a $5 discount! 3755 Côte Ste-Catherine Road Tel. 514-340-8222 x 5818 could be claimed. The 2006 series promises to be as When: Every Tuesday from May 2 Email: [email protected] Ambassador Brillantes is urging enlightening and entertaining as ever, to June 6 (English series) www.jgh.ca or the public to contact the Embassy in as participants will hear little-known Every Tuesday from April 4 to 25 Suzanne Gold case they receive such text messages so facts on all-new topics from the JGH's (French series) Communications Specialist that these fraudulent schemes could be medical professionals. 6:45 - 9:00 p.m. Public Affairs & Communications immediately reported to authorities in Speakers for the English series include: If you missed the previous JGH Jewish General Hospital Manila. Dr. Andre Dascal (Infectious Mini-Med School series, the Mini-Med Tel. 514-340-8222 x 4120 Diseases and Microbiology): "Emerging DVD is just what the doctor ordered! Email: [email protected] The Filipino Nurses Association Infections: Natural Mutations and Test- The JGH Mini-Med School series is www.jgh.ca of Quebec, Inc. tube Creations" now available on DVD. Place your order Calling all FNAQ iis holding an election on Dr. Walter Gotlieb (Gynecologic today and enjoy the same tips on Friday, March 31, 2006, 0830-1830 Oncology): "Preventing the Cancer that staying healthy and prevent trouble MEMBERS to vote on hrs., Philippine Community Center, Whispers" before it starts - in the comfort of your March 31, 2006 at FAMAS. 4708 Van Horne Ave., Montreal, QC

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St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard Napierville Pearl of Manila was featured in the Montreal Gazette by Sarah Musgrave’in Fresh pork blood her column “Casual Restos” and in a restaurant guide “Cheap Thrills” sold Sherrington 219 Fresh bacon 202 Lacolle at bookstores. Barrington Fresh liver 203 Sortie Exit No.6 Special Rate for Pork skin Havelock Hemmingford Montee 5839 Decarie Jackson Road 219 Parc Available Safari Private Parties Covey Hill Road 15 Boulevard (near Boucherie Viau Inc. (max. 60 persons) Canada Bourret) U. S. A. Business Hours: Malone Moders Champlain Mon. & Tues. - 2 p.m. - 9 p.m. Montreal, Quebec 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 Wed. to Fri. - 12 - 9 p.m Tel.: (450) 247-2130 or (450) 247-3561 Sat. & Sun. - 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tel.: 344-3670 Mtl. (514) 990-5162 Page 18 February 2006 The North American Filipino Star chinita star vehemently denies the Moreno introduced the second batch of report. Still, some showbiz insiders Walk of Famers in a red-carpet affair on insist that there’s nothing to the Jan. 28. The honorees included Delia rumored romance. Heart, they say, is Razon, Lolita Rodriguez, Charito Solis, still attached to her non-showbiz Oscar Moreno, Boots Anson-Roa, Pilita boyfriend. Whatever it is, the Heart- Corrales, Efren Reyes Sr., Tony Santos Echo affair came a bit too late for the Sr., Rosa Rosal, Barbara Perez, Anita recently concluded Panday telenovela, Linda, Jose Mari (Gonzalez), Fred Montilla, Jose Padilla Jr., Eddie Rodriguez, Armando Goyena, Lilia Dizon, Mario Montenegro, Christopher de Leon and Hilda Koronel. Kuya Germs promises there will be more batches coming up. Lea Faces a entanglements, Jaya boldly announced His Excellency, Willie on national television that she's two months pregnant. "That way, I Whole New World Days before the Ultra Stampede preempted any ugly rumor about my tragedy, TV host Willlie Revillame has pregnancy," says the Soul Diva. "My Five months pregnant, Lea been designated Celebrity Envoy for boyfriend and I really planned to get Salonga can’t wait to embrace a whole Tourism, in connection with the "Grand married and have the baby afterwards," new world -- motherhood. When the Pinoy Homeconing Program" of the explains Jaya. "Well, it happened, so..." Department of Tourism. This is the first The guy is Gary Gotidoc, a divorcee like time that a Filipino celebrity was Jaya, with a 10-year-old son who, appointed Celebrity Envoy by the DoT. according to Jaya's mom, comedienne Willie’s honorary appointment surely Elizabeth Ramsey "looks like Jaya." raised a lot of eyebrows considering his Jaya and her ex-husband, Andrew "notoriety" and controversial TV career Buffington, whom she married in the US (terminated twice by ABS-CBN, in 1998, didn’t have a child. She met suspended thrice) for foul language and Gary through a mutual friend around obscene gestures. Tourism Secretary Ace Durano explained that Willie was chosen because he has been helping promote the country through his daily where the couple starred. It would game show "Wowowee" on AB-CBN. surely have fired up the televiewers’ Durano said Willie has been doing a big interest in the ABS-CBN show, which share in prodding Filipinos abroad, failed to upstage Sugo of the rival especially the young ones, to come network GMA-7 in the ratings game. home and experience the beauty of the Echo of the Heart country. Willie promised to do justice to More Walk of Famers his new job. "My role now is not only to help but to convince children of Fil-Am Named parents to come home to visit their mother country." The country’s version of Hollywood’s Walk of Fame recently had Paalam na, Bayan its second batch of celebrities in its roll of honor. Unveiled last December in THOSE could have been Vice Eastwood City in Libis, Quezon City, the President Noli “Kabayan” de Castro’s two years ago when she did a concert stork visits in May, she says “everything project of veteran TV host German last words after his long-running show takes a back seat.” Motherhood, she with Freestyle in Los Angeles, where believes, is the greatest role that a Gary is based. "Gary and I were already woman can face. “I’m prepared to take a discussing marriage when I got nice, long break to spend time with my pregnant. No, it didn't happen by baby,” Lea says. “It could be six months, accident," Jaya assures. "We will push one year, two years. . . If I never have to through with our plan to get married sing again, or do another concert again, not long after I deliver." it will be all worth it for me.” Lea plans to deliver her baby in the Philippines Echo of the Heart “because all the tita and other relatives are there. But we’ll travel back and forth So it wasn’t a publicity gimmick because the other set of grandparents after all? We’re referring to gossip that are in the United States.” Jericho Rosales and his Panday leading lady, Heart Evangelista, were making And So Does the beautiful music together. Heart has openly admitted to the media that she Soul Diva and Echo are “exclusively dating,” meaning each of them is not seeing Unlike some of our celebrities anyone else. Of late, there have been who could not face up to their romantic rumors that Heart is pregnant. The

SARILING ATIN (514) 731-0638 DIVISORIA CUBAO (514) 733-8915 MEGASTAR (514) 341-8913 MARIZ RESTAURANT 514) 940-2872 PEARL OF MANILA (514) 344-3670 RASA RESTO BAR (514) 855-1444 February 2006 The North American Filipino Star Page 19 on ABS-CBN was axed by the Lopez- owned network. "Magandang Gabi, Bayan" (MGB) had its last show last literacy and seafarers training in strict nor many sectors of society will be December 31, ending a run of close to compliance with international maritime happy about the outcome," House 18 years that made “Kabayan” a standards. Representative Imee Marcos told The household name and catapulted him to Also pushing Filipinos to seek jobs Associated Press. the Senate and later to the No. 2 post of abroad is the local economy’s failure to "In the end, the resolution will not the land. The weekly show had been co- generate enough high-paying jobs, as be legal perhaps, but since the cases are the Philippines still has the highest political, the resolution will have to jobless rate among Asian peers. involve a level of political will that “The deployment of highly skilled, thus, remains absent," she said. higher paid Filipino workers such as Marcos said her mother's American engineers, teachers, nurses and medical lawyer, James Lynn, was in Manila workers also contributed to the high earlier this month to try to put together level of remittances in 2005,” Suratos a global settlement of Marcos cases in said. the Philippines, the US, Switzerland and Deployment of OFWs is expected to Singapore. continue for many years due to "He's always trying but it never increased demand for Filipino health seems to work out," she said. "All of us Filipinos working care workers in developed countries are quite tired now, and I don't think it's with aging populations as well as good for the family nor for the country to anchored by the De Castro’s daughter, abroad send home sustained economic growth in the host carry on with these court proceedings Katherine, with Erwin Tulfo and Henry countries. that seem to go nowhere." Omaga Diaz, since De Castro left the more money Suratos also pointed out that But she said she sees no hope of a financial institutions are trying to reach deal with President Gloria Macapagal- program at the start of the 2004 election MONEY sent home by overseas campaign. The Philippine Daily Inquirer out to a wider range of Filipinos working Arroyo's government, given that she and Filipino workers (OFWs) last year rose reported that the Lopez family “wanted overseas by aggressively pursuing her brother -- Governor Ferdinand much higher than official forecast, as to use” De Castro's program “to attack marketing activities, opening more Marcos Jr. of northern Ilocos Norte more people left the Philippines to seek the administration,” but that the Vice remittance centers, establishing tie-ups province -- are members of the higher-paying jobs abroad. President refused. Inquirer, quoting an abroad, and introducing enhanced opposition, and Arroyo's father, former OFW remittances coursed through unnamed source, said the Lopezes had means of remittance transfer. President Diosdado Macapagal, lost his commercial banks last year reached declared "war" on President Arroyo, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary re-election bid to Marcos in 1965. $10.7 billion, 25 percent higher than in whom they supposedly viewed to be Augusto Santos earlier bewailed that During his 20-year rule, Ferdinand 2004, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas hostile to their business interests. Maria bulk of OFW remittances sit idly in bank Marcos allegedly amassed ill-gotten said on Wednesday. Ressa, head of ABS-CBN Broadcasting deposits because of a lack of investment wealth estimated at 5 billion dollars to The central bank had projected 2005 Corp.'s news and current affairs, said opportunities elsewhere. 10 billion dollars in 1986, when he was remittances to hit $10.3 billion, a the report was inaccurate and insulting. While he acknowledged that bigger whisked to exile in Hawaii. He died there growth of 20 percent from $8.5 billion She said negotiations went on for bank savings could mean increased three years later. the year before. months before the show was pulled off investments and consumption in the In December alone remittances grew the air. She also said that the network future, Santos doubts whether 10.7 percent to hit $962 million. decided to retire the show because it investment opportunities for OFWs Bulk of the remittances came from the was identified with De Castro and that it would be available in the long term. United States, Saudi Arabia, Italy, “So the challenge now is how to would be just “a shadow of its former Japan, Hong Kong, United Kingdom, create productive activities for these self” without the Vice President. United Arab Emirates and Singapore. OFW remittances,” he added. “Spending According to De Castro, he had ceased “The sustained rise in the level of more on basic services should provide to be connected with MGB since 2004, remittances for 2005 was largely due to that.” when he assumed office as Vice the increase in the number of Filipinos President. But he still hosts a program working abroad,” BSP Deputy Governor Marcos' daughter at the Lopez-owned radio station dzMM, Armando Suratos said. for which he is not compensated. Preliminary data from the Philippine wants compromise Do you wish to get a Overseas Employment Administration better job? Learn French showed that the number of newly hired deal on ill-gotten and rehired OFWs grew 5.2 percent in as quickly as you can. 2005 to 981,677. wealth Call 514-485-7861 and By type, the number of land-based LATE President Ferdinand Marcos' register in our spring Filipino workers rose 4.2 percent to eldest daughter said Wednesday a 733,970, while that of sea-based session starting soon. compromise deal may be the best way to workers grew 8.2 percent to 247,707. resolve more than 400 cases involving Continuing demand for OFWs is due her family's alleged ill-gotten wealth. Tuition Fees are tax in part to government and private sector The cases are still pending in courts efforts to promote and identify deductible. We offer as Filipinos prepare to mark the 20th employment opportunities for Filipino anniversary of the "People Power" revolt Imee Marcos flexible hours, budget workers and to pursue capability- that drove Marcos and his family into The government has recovered only payment plans. enhancing programs such as exile in Hawaii on February 25, 1986. a fraction of the Marcos' alleged wealth. predeparture training, computer "Given the long time that we spent and the huge amounts of money that have RIZ ET NOUILLES been expended, perhaps a more A journey of a thousand miles, pragmatic solution is in order even if must begin with a single step. RICE & NOODLES neither my family nor the government, Lao Tzu 6080 Cote des Neiges (near Linton) Montreal, QC H3S 1Z7 514-731-7788 / 514-731-1343 Parties - cap acity Open 11:00 A.M. - 11:00 P.M. everyday for 120 people FREE DELIVERY (Minimum $8.00) S pecial Menu ( customer can request changes) $90 1) Wonton soup (choice of soup - crab corn 1 TABLE Good for soup) 2) Crispy chicken 10 PERSONS 3) Fried squid with salt and pepper LUNCH OR DINNER with FREE 2-liter 4) Mixed vegetables with beef Sprite OR Coke 5) Cantonese chow mein or Miki bihon 6) Shrimps in lobster sauce OR Pork chops with salt and pepper $5.95 7) S pecial fried rice Lunch Special 8) Steamed rice Daily Free 10 pieces sesame balls per table February 2006 Page 20 The North American Filipino Star Today, the almond tree remains a If the young lady favored the Historically yours symbol of abiding love and friendship. serenade, she would reciprocate by On each February 14, St Valentine’s lighting a lamp, opening the window or Day, messages of affection, love and sitting it out on the balcony, devotion are exchanged around the accompanied by a sister, or a lady world. friend. At times she is also accompanied I just received a beautiful by her mother, which makes it really Valentine’s card from my Apo very uncomfortable to these young (grandson). With the printed Valentine lovers. greetings from the card was his The shy but amorous Filipina, Lina V. Fernandez handwritten note -“Dear Lola, isn’t it gives forth an attentive ear, shyly gazing Philippine Historicl & wonderful to fall in love, to feel love, to down to the plaintive strains which the Cultural Society of be in love, and to be loved?. Lola, I am enamored lover sings as an expression Quebec very happy, I met the woman of my of his affection. And if she responds to dreams, we shall be getting married his fantasies, she would perhaps toss a “Love is a many splendored thing” very soon.” flower or a scented handkerchief to Since February 14 is St. Valentine’s Seeing that he was a man of learning, “Congratulations and Happy him. He picks up the flower, kisses and Day and February is known as the the jailer asked whether his daughter, Valentines to both of you. Yes dear, love presses it on his chest. Happily and month of lovers, I think it is Julia, could be brought to Valentinus is a many splendored thing.” Your Lola. content in one night of romantic interesting to talk about love and for lessons, Julia, who had been blind Associated with love and courtship venture, he bids his lady love goodbye, is the old Filipino custom, the “harana” hoping for more romantic evenings to which has remained until the present follow. time. Throughout the different changes Sometimes in some provinces, a of the century, Filipinos, rich or poor, suitor hires the town orchestra to play always remember with nostalgia – the the sweetest of Filipino love songs, serenade or “harana.” To the romantic “kundiman”, beneath the window. If Filipino, there is no better way of he does not have a good voice, he would expressing his love than to serenade on address her with romantic and loving a moonlight night, wafted with the verses. fragrance of the sampaguita or dama The “kundiman” has come to be de noche (lady of the night) flowers. known as the love song of the Filipinos. The young Filipno suitor of A Filipino composer describes the affection. According to the Webster by birth. She was a pretty young girl yesteryears does not resort to writing kundiman as a song, set to words, a dictionary, love is a deep devotion or with a quick mind. Valentinus read letters on linen paper, or sending a song in which a lover declares his love affection for another person or persons stories of Rome’s history to her. He Valentine’s card; he simply gets his to a lady and his admiration for her, - love for one’s children, love for God, described the world of nature to her. He guitar and with a group of young men, and throughout the song, he expresses love for someone special. It is taught her arithmetic and told her preferably a close friend or relative, goes his utmost abnegation to her wishes. customary to send a Valentine card or about God. She saw the world through

“Adios Mariquita Linda” After the serenade the gentlemen, bid the ladies goodbye, From left; Serenade (Harana) from the “ Pearl of the Orient Seas” a stage presentation, in celebration John Guinto, Geofrey Villarsa (hidden), Romeo Pelareja, Freddie Espinosa, the guitarist of the city of Montreal’s 350th birthday anniversary, August 22, 1992 . Sponsored by the and Manny Fausto. Federation of the Filipino Canandian Associations of Quebec. Ladies seated on a make believe stage balcony. L-R Geraldine Lamaire, Karen Villaruel and Gina Villaraza. gift, often anonymously, as a mark of his eyes, trusted his wisdom, and found love and affection. comfort in his quiet strength. to serenade his ladylove. In the The “kundiman” had its origin What does Valentine’s Day mean to “ Valentinus, does God really hear darkness of the night, in spite of brave among the Tagalogs of Luzon, and is you? Most people remember their our prayers?” Julia said one day. “Yes, inclement weather or distance, crossing truly an expression of their extremely Valentine as their first date, the first my child, He hears each one.” he villages and towns on foot to reach his sentimental nature. It reached its peak time they fall in love, or their love at first replied. “Do you know what I pray for beloved lady’s house, he stands beneath during the second and third decade of sight, the first whisper perhaps. every morning and every night? I pray the window or balcony, his companions the American period. Let me share with you a Valentine’s that I might see. I want so much to see first tune their guitars with lovely The “kundiman” has been accepted card that I received from a classmate everything you’ve told me about!” as one of the chief representatives of during my college days. We are still “God does what is best for us if we Philippine music, not only because of very good friends although we are will only believe in him.” Valentinus the intense feeling that it conveys, but continents apart. Coincidentally, for said. “Oh Valentinus . I do believe,” also because of the high degree of days I had been searching for a Julia said intensely “ I do,” She knelt musical artistry to which the country’s Valentines story and this card just and grasp his hand. composers elevated it. Its success can came in handy. Here’s a reprint from They sat quietly together, each be gleaned from the very talented the greeting card.--The Story of praying. Suddenly there was a Filipino music composers, namely, Dr. Valentine’s Day brilliant light in the cell. Radiant, Julia Francisco Santiago, Nicanor Abelardo, The story began in the third century screamed. “Valentinus, I can see! I can Antonio Molina, Bonifacio Abdon, with an oppressive Roman emperor and see!” “Praise be to God!” Valentinus Epifanio de los Santos Cristobal, to a humble Christian martyr. The exclaimed, and he knelt in prayer. name a few great names in history. emperor was Claudius II. The Christian On the eve of his death Valentinus There are some tales and theories was Valentinus Valentinus. wrote a last note to Julia, urging her to music, then he steps forward, and regarding the origin of the “kundiman”. Claudius II ordered all Romans to stay close to God, and signed it. “ From sings to express his love. In his songs According to an old story, this is how worship twelve gods, and he made it a your Valentine.” he would pour out all his sentiments the song got its name. One bright crime punishable by death to associate His sentence was carried out the and longings of his heart and hastily moonlight night, during the Spanish with Christians. But Valentinus was next day, February 14, 270 A.D., near dedicates a torrent of love songs called regime, a group of romantic young men dedicated to the ideal of Christ, and not a gate that was latter named Porta “kundiman” to her. Here’s a short from Pandacan got together to even the threat of death could keep him Valentini in his memory. He was buried sample of a “kundiman” - “O ilaw, sa serenade a young woman, whose house from practicing his beliefs. He was at what is now the Church of Praxedes gabing malamig, wagis mo’y bituin sa was very close to the church convent. arrested and imprisoned.. in Rome. It is said that Julia herself langit . . . Buksan ang bintana, at ako’y They started their serenade with one of During the last weeks of Valentinus’ planted a pink- blossomed almond tree dungawin ng mapag-tanto mo ang the most popular kundiman of the life a remarkable thing happened. near his grave. tunay kong pag-daing.” time. It was a beautiful song with a very February 2006 Page 21 The North American Filipino Star enchanting and simple melody, but the additional expense is well worth the verses were somewhat monotonous due investment if you intend to create to the constant repetition of the three professional quality videos. words “kung hindi man,” The verses Another key feature you might look were as follows: for is XLR audio inputs. The reason for “ Kung hindi man dapat sa iyong this is simple: professional microphones kariktan; Ang aking pag-ibig na sa iyo’y use XLR audio connections. In addition ini-aalay; Kung hindi man ako dapat to the 3-chip upgrade and XLR inputs, kaawaan; Isinasamo kong manungaw look for manual control of all the ka lamang.” creative aspects of video - focus, white In English, this would sound like this. balance, exposure, shutter speed and “ Although I do not deserve your audio levels. While not every camera ideal beauty; this love of mine I offer will contain all options, consider the thee; Although I may not be worthy of type of videos you shoot and make sure your compassion; I beseech thee to look the camcorder you buy has the most out of thy window.” Buying a new camcorder important features for your A priest nearby was awakened by For months, you have been The Serious Hobbyist productions. the young men’s voices and hearing the contemplating to buy a camcorder. One All that entry-level stuff sounds fine, The Serious Professional words “kung hindi man” over and over that has all the features you want, ie. but serious hobbyists want more (and While entry-level pros might make again, he asked his servants to make black and intimidating; better than your some manual controls) in their new some money shooting video, there are them stop singing their “kundiman, neighbors’ camera. You must have camcorder. As with our previous some lucky folks who make their living kundiman.” Because of his inability to waited long enough and save enough category, there are many camera shooting high-end video. This may say the three Tagalog words clearly, the money and now you’re going to buy one models that fit the bill nicely. First, if include wedding videography, corporate priest thus gave the song its popular on credit or cash! Wouldn't it be great to you're really serious, a digital training, commercials, infomercials or name. Unfortunately, however, the good have a new camcorder? Of course it camcorder is a must. Not just for the even independent filmmaking. father was never been identified. would be. The good news is that improved video and sound quality, but Serious work requires a serious Another theory regarding the origin regardless of your experience level or for some other important reasons. It's camera. Although prices can exceed of the “kundiman” - the word itself was the depth of your pockets, there's a likely you'll want to edit your videos. If $6,000, there are a handful of options first applied to the verses and, later on camcorder out there that suits your that's the case, a FireWire interface is under that mark that produce high-end to the music itself. The author, Epifanio requirements. In fact, the cameras highly recommended. FireWire is broadcast quality. In addition to all the de los Santos Cristobal, has it that the made today easily outshine those from intimately linked with the Mini DV features required by the entry-level word kundiman came from short just three or four years ago, so if you've format and can be found on all Mini DV professional, a serious camera includes verses recited by Caveteños which ran held off from buying until the price went camcorders. Whether you use a Mac or several other options. At this level, look this way: “Hele-hele nang kundagan, down or the quality got better, now's the a Windows-based computer, FireWire for interchangeable lenses so you can Hele-hele nang kundiman.”This was in perfect time to invest in a new transfers audio and video data out of - leverage your current collection of glass. reference to the shy Filipina who camcorder. and back into - your camcorder. Manual control of all lens, white- pretends not to betray her emotions A trip to your local electronics Best Another important reason to go digital - balance and exposure settings is when a suitor expresses his love for her, Buy, Future Shop, Centre HiFi or especially Mini DV - is compatibility. mandatory - some cameras even offer although she cares for him, for fear that Sources can be a little intimidating for With Mini DV as your format of choice, storage of all your favorite settings for her love affair would only provoke her the first-time buyer. There are so many you'll produce videos that can be played quick recall. Another requirement: parents into scolding her. options, features and formats. Which on a variety of equipment, including balanced audio connections (XLR) along The other theory says that items are important and which are just some professional broadcast with phantom power for condenser “kundiman” is a contraction of three frills? How powerful should the zoom equipment. microphones and advanced metering of Tagalog words, kung hindi man, lens be? Is there a difference in quality Most cameras have a large sticker audio levels complimented with a beefy (though you may not) something of an between Digital8 and Mini DV? Should that proudly displays the words like headphone amplifier. expression of humility on the part of the you trust the salesperson with the "700x Zoom" or some such nonsense. None of these requirements come suitor. pocket protector or the one with long This number refers to the digital zoom cheap, but the resulting quality of audio The traditional Filipino courting hair and a nose ring? Don't panic. magnification and is as meaningless as and video are unmatched short of songs are still the favorites of most Choosing a camcorder is easy when you any techno you'll ever read. The only HDTV. Remember, the last two Star music lovers, among them, Kung hindi understand what you need and zoom rating you need to know is the Wars movies were shot exclusively on man (1920), Kung Ako’y Umibig, compare that to what you're willing to optical zoom range. This range refers to video, not film and not many folks have Bituing Marikit, Nasaan Ka Irog, (1923), pay. the actual zoom length of the lenses in complained about image quality. Pakiusap, Mutya ng Pasig (1926), The Casual Shooter the camera and is important in If you're upgrading or are Himutok, Ikaw Rin, Magbalik Ka First-time buyers often fall into the determining how far away you can be considering a future upgrade, don't Hirang, O, Ilaw, Adios Mariquita Linda category of casual shooter. The casual from a subject and still fill the screen. In forget the accessories. Blowing your etc. These immortal kundimans have shooter is looking for something to this case, a larger ratio is better, but the budget on the most expensive now become part of the country’s record family events, such as birthdays, largest you'll likely encounter is 20x camcorder you can buy is a mistake. musical legacy. holidays, vacations and special (20:1). Check out the next step up from the Today, the kundimans of the occasions. These shooters have little As a serious hobbyist, you also need an manufacturer of your current camera. country’s music composers will always interest in making money with their external microphone jack and a You may be able to reuse batteries, purchase. They just want to point and headphone jack. This allows you to use chargers, filters and other accessories, shoot. There are dozens of models better, more directional microphones in reducing the effective cost of upgrading. available that suit these requirements your videos, and monitor the sound Especially for the shooter moving from perfectly. with headphones. Nothing screams casual occasional shooting into When you go shopping, you'll be amateur louder than audio from an on- videography as a hobby, think about bombarded with dozens of technological camera microphone. getting a tripod and lights before you terminologies. For instance, there are The Entry-Level Professional search for the magic camera that will five different tape formats - 8mm, Hi8, Maybe you're a creative type. You've win Sundance Film Festival. Digital8, Mini DV and VHS-C and HD had simple camcorders in the past, but We've covered quite a range of prices, The first three formats use 8mm tape to you've outgrown their capabilities. As quality and features in just a short record different types of video. From a an entry-level professional, you'll time. Hopefully, you have a better functional standpoint, they amount to certainly edit and sell a few of your understanding of where you fit on the good, better & best. Buy the best one videos and perhaps even enter a project scale and can make an informed you can afford. or two in a contest. decision when it's time to buy your next Mini DV (DV25) is the dominant This is a very interesting category camcorder. Oh another tip to buyers is format for consumer camcorders and because the lines start to blur between that when a camera goes on sale with a for good reason. It is so far my best semi-pro and professional equipment. drastically reduced prices, a new model choice. The analog formats produce The single most important element of is about to be released. better images today than in the past this unique range is the use of 3-chip Happy shopping. and VHS-C is still an alternative. image sensors. Most camcorders use Al Abdon Another advantage is that VHS-C tapes one CCD to collect and digitize the Hollywood Junkies Video Productions pop into an adapter for easy viewing on image that comes through the lens. A 3- (514) 264-8706 your VHS VCR. Unfortunately, if you chip camera uses separate CCDs, one remain as classic love songs. As one want to make a copy for Kuya Eddie, each for the red, green and blue Filipino historian wrote: “Indeed, the you'll still have to cable the camera to a portions of the image. Each chip is kundiman has grown from its very VCR. optimized for its special range of color simple beginning .. a highly emotional Most entry-level camcorders and collects, digitizes and processes erotic love song that originated among don't have manual controls for audio, only that part of the image. This the grassroots…into a highly developed focus or white-balance, so consider any dramatically improves the sharpness, piece of art... of high artistic import and extra features a bonus. Still, point-and- color and realism of the recorded image. universal appeal, and living, vibrant shooters, by definition, don't want to For instance, an entry-level 3-chip proof of the country’s musical artistry monkey with these sorts of things, so camera could easily cost $2,000 more and craftsmanship.” fire away. than a similar single-chip version. The Page 22 The North American Filipino Star February 2006 A Letter from a Daughter to her Parents: Stephanie just left Montreal to go around 5AM in the morning. We hear it back to CFB Petawawa where she was everyday and it wakes me up everyday! posted in the Artillery Unit as an Also October was the month of administration specialist. She usually Ramadan in which they fast for a comes over to Montreal not only to visit month…no food or water from 5AM- us but she misses the hectic lifestyle 5PM…I like to see Jay try to do that!!! and night life which does not exist in Also there is one prayer in which they the northern hills of Ontario. She was to have to wash their hands, feet and face resume her normal duties when an while chanting. It is definitely order came. interesting in that aspect. The weather It is an order to work with the DART is 23-25 C during the day and 4-5 C at unit as part of Canada’s contribution to nighttime. Pakistan’s earth wake disaster. Two Their ways of life in with the locals days later Stephanie was on board on a are quite different. Garbage are thrown military flight to Zagreb, then Saudi off the side of the mountain and Arabia and a final flight to Pakistan. everywhere you step on is either dirt or Two weeks later we received a letter dusty large rock. Oh here’s a gross story…I went to our burn pit ( a large hole in the ground in which we burn our garbage or the locals would dig through Stephanie with the Canadian troop on a hill in Pakistan where this photo was taken. it) and we found a cow’s guts all over the side of the pits. It was nasty. Anyways, apparently the locals who live PLDT, Microsoft tandem will deliver hosted next to us said that their cow was sick software services due to the burn pit so they killed the SOFTWARE giant Microsoft and piracy in the corporate sector remain a cow and threw the guts over to our side Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. headache for the software company, of the fence! It’s wild! (PLDT), the country’s largest phone which has to compete with alternative At the field hospital we receive 125 company, struck a deal this week that software like those hawked by open patients per day. There are constant will soon change the way Microsoft source advocates. Microsoft is looking injuries from the locals. Just the other distributes its software to Philippine for alternative distribution models for day, a medic had to cut a piece of bone customers. its software products, Javier said in a that was protruding out of his finger so Antonio Javier Jr., Microsoft statement. they had to use a tooth extractor. A lot Philippines managing director, told "We've realized that in order to of sad injuries! I miss you all and I love INQ7.net that this partnership signals reach a broader set of the market, we you all very much, Microsoft's push for a pay-per-use have to look into a more innovative Love model for distributing its software to business model, a model where both Steppy enterprise clients. business users and consumers can get Stephanie is now back in CFB from Stephanie. It said, "This will be a hosted service," to enjoy the benefits of our products on Petawawa to resume her normal duties. Dear Mom, Dad & Jay, added Javier, hinting at more a pay-per-use basis. It's a model that is After that tour, her perspective in life I hope things are going well! Don’t collaboration between the two giants pretty new to our company but it has towards the locals in Pakistan changed. worry, I’m doing fine here in the this year. "PLDT is going to go big in already been mastered by She wish she could do more to help mountains of Pakistan. Everything here 2006 and Microsoft will play a big role in telecommunication companies, them and just hope Canada will is so different from home. First, it’s a this," the Microsoft Philippines particularly PLDT, which is continue to be active in humanitarian Muslim country so they have to pray 5 executive said. undoubtedly the leading provider in this aids. times a day. The first prayer starts Continuing problems of software Al Abdon part of the world."

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